Cyclone Hockey took the first game of a two-game exhibition series 2-0 against the independent tier-III junior team the Illiana Blackbirds on Feb. 13 at the Ames/ISU Ice Arena. 

The Cyclones refused to cede puck possession throughout the first period. The control of play showed itself in the statistics as the Cyclones out-shot the Blackbirds 22-7. 

Early in the period, Illiana’s defense appeared out of sync as it allowed multiple breakaway opportunities. But the Blackbirds managed to hold the game to a scoreless tie, partly in thanks to Larry Pezzuto’s effort in net, who made more than a few highlight-reel saves.

The Cyclones came close to multiple goals, but the key passes narrowly escaped their targets to set up shots on a wide open net. 

The Cyclones didn’t slow down at the start of the second period but saw a down tick in their shots on net, attempting four fewer than in the first period.

They were able to light up the lamp a first time despite decreased opportunities after Alec Wilhelmi deflected a shot in front of the net, preventing Pezzuto from increasing an already high save total. Shortly following the first goal, Chase Rey, who has nine points in his last 11 games, scored unassisted and put his team up by two. 

The Cyclones put a barrage on net in the final period, but they couldn’t score and the game remained 2-0 in favor of the Cyclones. 

The Cyclones put 53 shots on net while Scott Ismond completed the shutout with 23 saves.

Cyclone Hockey will play in a rematch against the Illiana Blackbirds at 8:00 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Ames/ISU Ice Arena.