Image courtesy of the Bloomington Bison
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The Bloomington Bison stand one game below .500 at a record of 6-5 throughout the first month of play in the inaugural season.
“The important thing is our game is trending the right trajectory,” Head Coach Barski said. “I think our guys are coming together, and we are developing a solid culture here in Bloomington.”
The team got back into the win column on Sunday after overcoming the Iowa Heartlanders in an overtime shootout. Thomas Stewart was the Bison savior and knocked in the winning goal for a 3-2 victory.
The Bison secured its first home win in history after jumping over the Kalamazoo Wings three goals to one on Nov. 8 at Grossinger Motors Arena.
Sahil Panwar got the momentum rolling for the Bison, finding the back of the net on an assist from Case McCarthy in the first period. Blake McLaughlin solidified the Bison win, knocking two goals throughout the remaining periods.
Mark Sinclair was a denying force for the Bison and saved 21 of the Wings’ shot attempts.
A big part of the Bison’s success has been through the hands of captain Eddie Matsushima.
“He is a clear example of our younger group of what it means to be a pro hockey player, Barski said. “Taking care of your body, treating people with respect, or working hard in the gym.
Matsushima was a key factor in the team’s 5-2 over the Cincinnati Cyclones on Nov. 16. The captain knocked in two goals and assisted on a pair of additional goals.
The Bison hold tenth place in the Western Conference league with a record of 5-6.
The team has a rematch with the Indy Fuel on Friday at 7 pm at Grossinger Motors Arena.