Ohio State took over the Yost Ice Arena in emphatic fashion Friday night with a 7-2 stomp of Michigan. It was Michigan’s first significant game since Dec. 10, and it was obvious.
The Wolverines looked slow, soft and disinterested on Friday night, but they came out with a different energy on Saturday night against their rival. Michigan picked up its 13th win of the season with a 4-2 win over the Buckeyes on Saturday.
Hopefully the fans settled in quickly, as Ohio State struck first, just 18 seconds into the game. It looked like a potential repeat of Friday night, but goalkeeper Erik Portillo recovered and put in a solid performance between the posts.
About seven minutes after Ohio State’s first goal, Mackie Samoskevich found the back of the net for the Wolverines thanks to assists from Adam Fantilli and Jacob Truscott.
Later in the first period, Truscott beat Ohio State goaltender Jakub Dobes to give Michigan a 2-1 lead. It was Truscott’s second goal of the season, and it turned the tide for Michigan.
Ohio State’s offensive drive remained stagnant, and the Wolverines carried all the momentum into the second period.
Gavin Brindley found the back of the net with about five minutes left in the second period, and he was helped by Seamus Casey and, again, Truscott.
The Wolverines took a two-goal advantage in the final period, and although Ohio State cut the deficit to one goal, Rutger McGroarty connected on a one-timer with about four minutes left in the game. the game to extend Michigan’s lead to two goals. .
It was McGroarty’s ninth goal of the season, and it all but sealed the game for Wolverines. Ohio State pulled their goalie late, but Portillo stayed strong in the net to secure Michigan the win.
Brandon Naurato and the Wolverines are now 13-8-1 this season, and they will travel to Minnesota next weekend to face the mighty second-place Minnesota Golden Gophers.
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