Michigan State wins the 2023-34 MCRHL AA Championship
MCRHL March 2nd, 2024 at 1:56PM March 2nd, 2024 7:59PMIn an electrifying series for the MCRHL AA Conference Championship, Ohio State clashed with Michigan State in a best of 3 series that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Michigan State emerged triumphant with hard-fought 9-7 and 7-4 victories over Ohio State.
Game 1
First Period:
Michigan State wasted no time asserting their dominance as John Lapinski struck early at 1:49, netting an unassisted goal. Ohio State responded swiftly with Ryan Surdek finding the back of the net at 4:50, assisted by Tj DeLuca. However, Michigan State surged ahead with goals from Garrett Menko and Owen Denker, establishing an early lead. Despite some penalties disrupting the flow of play, Michigan State ended the period with a 3-1 advantage.
Second Period:
Michigan State continued their offensive onslaught in the second period as Robert Perkins scored just 25 seconds in, extending their lead. Dominick Evangelisti of Ohio State managed to close the gap with a goal at 4:57, assisted by Ryan Surdek. Ohio State capitalized on a power-play opportunity, with Tanner Buck finding the net at 9:10, assisted by Ryan Surdek and Tj DeLuca. Despite some penalty trouble for Michigan State, they maintained their lead, ending the period with a 6-4 advantage.
Third Period:
The final period was a rollercoaster of action as both teams fought tooth and nail for victory. Ohio State's Dominick Evangelisti ignited the comeback with two quick goals early in the period, narrowing the deficit. However, Michigan State responded swiftly, with goals from Leo Rihn V and John Lapinski, maintaining their lead. Ohio State fought valiantly, with Tj DeLuca and Dominick Evangelisti adding to their tally. But Michigan State held firm, securing the win with an empty-net goal from John Lapinski, ending the game with a 9-7 victory.
Game 2
First Period:
The game started with a flurry of action as both teams fought relentlessly for control. Ohio State made an early statement with goals from Thomas Marriner and Tanner Buck, giving them an early lead. However, Michigan State quickly responded with Luke Washe and John Lapinski finding the back of the net, evening the score. The period ended with both teams deadlocked at 3-3.
Second Period:
Michigan State seized momentum in the second period, capitalizing on a power-play opportunity as Luke Washe scored just 1:52 into the period. Matthew Blaska extended their lead with a goal at 9:03, putting Ohio State on the back foot. Despite some penalties disrupting the flow of play, Michigan State maintained their composure, ending the period with a 5-3 advantage.
Third Period:
The final period was a showcase of Michigan State's offensive prowess as they continued to press forward relentlessly. Garrett Menko and John Lapinski added to their tally, further widening the gap. Ohio State fought valiantly, with Rylan Petruk scoring a power-play goal to trim the deficit. However, Michigan State's defense held firm, securing the win with a final score of 7-4.