For the Cyclones, playing at home in the Ames/ISU Ice Arena has usually led to a win, with the Cyclones winning all 14 of their home games so far this season.

They added to their 14-game home winning streak again Friday with a 5-2 win over the St. Clair College Saints. The streak was cut short, though, as the Saints rebounded to defeat the Cyclones 4-1 Saturday, handing them their first home loss of the season.

“That’s hockey like we see at the world class level,” said Cyclone Hockey coach Al Murdoch. “The Canadians are very proud of their game, and they weren’t going to come down here and get swept.”

The Cyclones have been making a habit of falling behind early in games. That was the case again this weekend, as on both Friday and Saturday the Cyclones fell behind by a score of 2-0 in the first period.

“I think its part of our youthfulness,” Murdoch said. “The bulk of our team is freshman and sophomores, so it takes them a little longer to feel out the opponent, and then get the motors going.”

On Friday, even after falling behind, they were able to get the motors going. Zach Peterson scored with 1:14 left in the first period, bringing the Cyclones within one goal and turning the momentum back into the favor of the Cyclones.

The game was tied up after a power-play goal by Trevor Graham with 6:01 left in the second period. The Cyclones then grabbed the lead as Joe Balsimo intercepted a pass, went on a breakaway and beat the goalie with only 35 seconds remaining in the second period, giving the Cyclones the 3-2 lead. They never looked back as Trent Graham and Rob Tauer each added insurance goals in the third period, helping Cyclone Hockey to a comfortable 5-2 win.

The Cyclones went into Saturday’s game looking to hand the stingy St. Clair Saints a road sweep. Just as they did Friday, the Cyclones fell behind early by a score of 2-0.

It looked as though they would mount a comeback as Trevor Graham, who was assisted by brother Trent, scored a shorthanded goal to move the Cyclones within one. A comeback was not to be seen, however, as the Saints scored a goal just 1:43 into the second period, killing the Cyclone’s momentum.

But, the Cyclones had plenty of opportunities in the second period to mount a comeback. St. Clair committed a number of penalties, giving the Cyclones numerous power-plays. At one point the Saints had six players in the penalty box, causing a delay in the game as the referees sorted out the chaos. The Cyclones were then unable to take advantage of the ensuing five on three power-play.

“That was kind of a let down,” said captain David Moline. “That was probably one of the turning points in the game.”

The Cyclones couldn’t score in the third period despite taking 15 shots on goal.

“I thought we had a chance in the third period, but their goaltender [Tyler Bilton] played extremely well,” Murdoch said. “My compliments to him, he won the game for them.”

The Cyclones won’t dwell on the loss to much, as their record now stands at 22-4-1.

“This team has played really well. Twenty-two wins before Christmas – incredible,” Murdoch said. “I’ve had a few teams that have gotten 20 wins before Christmas, but 22 is exceptional.”

The Cyclones will now go on winter break and resume practice in early January, before flying to Arizona for the Arizona State Classic, Jan. 5-7.