To Loyola Gold, seven is just a number. After ending the regular season 10-14-3 in the SHL, the No. 7 Ramblers rallied back to defeat No. 2 Glenbrook North 4-1 in Game 3 of the first round of the SHL Playoffs Wednesday night in Northbrook. 

“We just came out with a lot more positive energy,” said freshman Will McAndrew, who scored the game-winner. “We realized that we could really do this, we could compete with anybody in this league if we put forth the effort.” 

William Schreiber got things started for Loyola in the first period, followed shortly by Glenbrook North’s Jaden Andrew. McAndrew knocked in the winner to open the second and goals trickled in from Kevin Purcell and A.J. Cornelison though Loyola was outshot by the Spartans 29-17. 

“It’s not about the talent we have, it’s about how hard we work,” added McAndrew “[This win] is huge, it gives us a lot of momentum heading into the playoffs and gives our team a lot of confidence.”

Loyola will face No. 1 New Trier Green (26-1) in the Game 1 of the semifinals Saturday, February 15th at 7:20pm at Centennial Ice Arena in Wilmette. 

Nerves will be left at the door as McAndrew says, “We’re ready, Im going in with a full head of steam.”