Men's ice hockey cruised to an 8-3 win and series sweep against Illinois Saturday evening at the Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri.  

The Lions rushed out to a 3-1 advantage after the first period, and increased the lead to 5-1 after the second, before outscoring the Illini three goals to two in the final period.

Lindenwood outshot Illinois 49-18 and Stephen Friedland stopped 15 of the 18 pucks he faced to earn the victory in goal.  Special teams played a key role in the game as the Lions scored on both of their power play chances.

With the win, Lindenwood improved to 4-1-0 overall and to 2-0-0 in the Central States Collegiate Hockey League.  The Lions continue a stretch of five straight home games when they host Maryville University October 15-16.  The puck drops at 7:10 p.m. Friday night and again at 3:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the Centene Community Ice Center.