WILKES-BARRE, Pa.  – The Wilkes Colonels claimed their second Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) title in three seasons on Saturday night with a 3-1 victory over reigning champion Stevenson.

Wilkes finished MAC play with 21 points (7-1-0) to edge the Mustangs who finished with 19 points (7-1-0). The Colonels defeated Stevenson in regulation, while the Mustangs needed overtime to defeat Wilkes earlier in the season. 

Stevenson saw its nine-game winning streak come to an end with the 3-1 setback on Saturday. The MAC title is based on the best regular-season finish based on the United Collegiate Hockey Conference (UCHC) point system among the six MAC teams.

Wilkes jumped ahead in the first period with a goal by senior Donald Flynn, his ninth of the season. Stevenson remained scoreless until the third period. 

Wilkes led the third period with what was ultimately the game-winning goal by senior Tyler Dill. Stevenson answered back with a goal by senior Chad Watt, with assists to Luke Benitez and Rory Gresham, to trail the Colonels 2-1.

With roughly three minutes left on the clock, senior Phil Erickson sealed the win with the third goal for Wilkes. Stevenson's Ryan Kenny made 23 saves in goal, allowing three goals, for an .885 save percentage. Wilkes' Nico Pidro had 27 saves on the night while only allowing one to pass for a .964 save percentage. 

Stevenson and Wilkes will begin competing for the UCHC Tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 23 with home games in the Quarterfinal round. Wilkes currently sits at second seed and Stevenson at third.

* Story courtesy: Middle Atlantic Conference