With their win Tuesday (Feb. 6, 2018) night, the Waterloo Black Hawks moved into the top spot in the USHL's Western Conference.

The Waterloo Black Hawks moved into first place overall in the United States Hockey League thanks to a nail-biting 3-2 win against the Chicago Steel Tuesday night at Young Arena. Waterloo

The Hawks did not lead in the game until 1:07 remained in regulation. Chicago was unable to clear the defensive zone, and Waterloo pounced thanks to quick puck movement. Jackson Cates passed to Ben Finkelstein in the right circle, and the playmaking defenseman hit Garrett Wait beside the net with a diagonal feed. Wait scored into the open side for his team-leading fourth game-winning goal of the season.

The victory moves the Hawks past the idle Omaha Lancers and U.S. National Team Development Program into first place. Waterloo is now the first team this season with 50 standings points.

Tuesday’s game capped a six-game Hawks homestand. Waterloo was 4-1-1 during the stretch. The Hawks hit the road for a game in Green Bay against the Gamblers on Friday.

This Friday night, the Black Hawks travel to Green Bay to take on the Gamblers. Then they return to Young Arena Saturday for a rivalry game against the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. It's “Rock ‘em, Sock ‘em” night in Party Town. The Waterloo Black Hawks plan to collect socks for the Cedar Valley’s homeless population.

When the Hawks score their first goal that night, fans will be asked to shower new, unworn pairs of socks onto the ice. The footwear will be donated to House of Hope and The Cedar Valley Hospitality House, which both serve the homeless of Black Hawk County.

Partial Contributor Credit: Tim Harwood (Waterloo Black Hawks Media Relations)

More From Q98.5