Michigan hockey flys past No. 15 Michigan State in East Lansing

On Friday night, the 5th-ranked Michigan hockey team took down the 15th-ranked Michigan State Spartans on the road at Munn Ice Arena in East Lansing, MI. The Wolverines now lead the season series, 2-1, ahead of Saturday’s ‘Dual in the D’ matchup at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI.

First period

The Wolverines started the night hot and essentially won the game in the first period alone. Just minutes into the game, sophomore forward Mackie Samoskevich buried the first goal, giving Michigan a 1-0 lead. Minutes later, the Wolverines scored again; this time, freshman forward Adam Fantilli lit the lamp to push Michigan’s lead to two goals.

If that wasn’t enough, freshman forward Gavin Brindley scored Michigan’s third goal just a few minutes later. An MSU goal was called back due to goaltender interference, and the Wolverines’ lead remained at 3-0 heading into the first break.

Second period

After as good of a first period as possible, Michigan hockey failed to score a single goal in the second. The Spartan defense limited the Wolverines and frequently played stoppages; meanwhile, Michigan State finally managed to get on the board heading into the third and final period of play.

Less than five minutes into the second period, Michigan State scored their first goal of the game and cut the Wolverines’ lead to 3-1 heading into the third.

Third period

Just over five minutes into the third, Michigan State attempted a comeback as they netted their second goal of the game, leaving Michigan hockey with a 3-2 lead as the game entered its final stages.

As we have seen repeatedly, the Wolverines were held steady by junior goaltender Erik Portillo, who acted as a brick wall all night in Michigan’s win. Portillo stopped 30 of the Spartans’ 32 shots in another incredible performance — despite having a rough start to the season, the veteran netminder was rock solid on Friday night.

Michigan’s Gavin Brindley capped off the night win an empty net goal, giving the Wolverines a 4-2 lead. Michigan hockey finished the game on a high note as we turned the page from Friday’s contest to the ‘Dual in the D’ on Saturday night.

The Wolverines and Spartans will meet again on Saturday night — puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 PM at Little Caesars Arena for what is known as the heaviest trophy in college hockey.

FINAL: Michigan 4, Michigan State 2

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