It was a cold Saturday winter night, the perfect weather for an indoor hockey game. The ice hockey team was playing Francis Howell North, a match-up that was supposed to result in a failure for the Spartans.  By the time the first period had ended, the Spartans were losing by two, with one goal scored by junior Andy Ruhlman. During the second period, Ruhlman and junior Jalen Krogman both scored a goal. However, so did North. By the end of that period, it was a close 4-3, North winning.

When third period rolled around, Central fans were starting to lose hope.

“I was about ready to leave,” said junior James Urban.

North had scored another goal, making the game 5-3. Then, within a matter of minutes, the game had become tied, thanks to the two goals scored by seniors Danny McPeak and Alex Syrigos.

“Never have there been so many Spartan fans on their feet shouting at the top of their lungs to win the game,” said junior Shawn Moore.

The game was coming to an end with fear of ending in a tie in everyone’s eyes. With only a few minutes left in the game, Ruhlman had the puck. Completing a hat trick, Ruhlman made the winning shot.

“I thought we were going to lose,” said Ruhlman. “My heart was racing with adrenaline. I was so ecstatic when I made that winning shot.”

The Spartans’ next two games are Friday at 7:45 p.m. and Saturday at 6:45 p.m. Both games will be played at the Rec Plex North arena.