This year’s Michigan State hockey team was the best that the Spartans have fielded in a over decade and still, they couldn’t get past Michigan hockey to the Frozen Four.
The Spartans won the Big Ten tournament title last week, with the help of Big Ten officials, but there was no such help available Sunday in St. Louis. Outside of the first-period goal, which could have easily been disallowed.
It didn’t matter though. Michigan hockey proved to be the better team and used a dominant third period to beat the Spartans, 5-2 on their way to a third consecutive Frozen Four.
Michigan hockey is back in the Frozen Four
As the third period started though, it was anyone’s game (tied 1-1). Marshall Warren gave the Wolverines the lead early in the third period before the Spartans tied it up at 2-2. Yet, with two goals in just 12 seconds — following goals by Dylan Duke and Gavin Brindley (thanks to an incredible assist) — the Wolverines were in front 4-2.
Michigan State pulled its goalie early but committed a penalty. With just a few minutes left, Duke took advantage, scoring his second third-period goal to clinch the 5-2. Duke also scored twice in the third period as Michigan hockey rallied past North Dakota for a 4-3 win over Friday.
The Wolverines weren’t expected to win any games this weekend. A few weeks ago, they were squarely on the NCAA tournament bubble.
Michigan State, on the other hand, was having its best season in decades. They were aiming for their first Frozen Four appearance in 17 years. It was their first NCAA tournament appearance in 12 years and it was all for nothing. Thanks to the Michigan hockey team.
In short, it’s a great day to be a Michigan Wolverine, once again.
The Wolverines will head to St. Paul, Minnesota for the Frozen Four which will open April 11 against Boston College. Michigan State — they are headed home — which makes this win, as satisfying as any over the past three seasons.
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