The Newcastle Northstars have enjoyed their first victory of 2021 in their 3-1 win against the Sydney Ice Dogs in Erina on Saturday night.

In their first game since their season opener at home on the 9th of May, the win evened out the loss to the Brave earlier in May and set up an important match against the Ice Dogs when they reciprocate and visit the Northstars at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium this weekend on Saturday night.

The win didn't come easy in Erina, with the Northstars behind 1-0 after the first period to the Ice Dogs.

A second period goal closed the gap, but it was the two goals in the third period while keeping the Ice Dogs off the scoreboard that had the Northstars seal their maiden win in the McCormack Cup.

The win had further flavour, with the Northstars bringing on yet another local youth player, this time it was Hunter Ellen's time to debut for Newcastle. Ellen was the seventh local rookie to join the squad in 2021.

Coach Kennedy told the Newcastle Herald that it was confidence won through defensive discipline that was key to the win.

Goalie Tom Munro was praised in his key role in making big saves to keep the Northstars in the game, and then on top.

The Northstars won't need to wait for long to test themselves again, with the Ice Dogs in Warners Bay at 5pm this Saturday night.

The game will be live streamed, see the Northstars Facebook page for details.