Lansing Sun

Michigan State University secured a 2-1 overtime victory against Lake Superior State in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The Spartans overcame a slow start to clinch the win with Daniel Russell scoring the decisive goal just 39 seconds into overtime. Isaac Howard played a crucial role by carrying the puck into the offensive zone and assisting Russell's shot, which deflected off a defender before crossing the goal line. Matt Basgall also contributed with an assist.

In the opening period, both teams exchanged goals. Howard scored first for MSU at 13:57 after receiving a pass from Russell, managing to beat LSSU goalie Rorke Applebee. Connor Milburn equalized for Lake Superior State later in the period with a clean shot past MSU goalie Trey Augustine.

Augustine recorded 25 saves throughout the game, while Applebee made 37 stops, including 25 in the third period alone. The Spartans had a significant advantage in shots on net with a total of 39 compared to LSSU's 26, although they struggled initially with only 13 shots during the first two periods.

Despite facing challenges at faceoffs where Lake Superior State won 30 out of 45 draws, MSU managed to control their defensive play effectively. Basgall led his team defensively with four blocked shots and provided key support during penalty kills.

The match concluded as MSU quickly capitalized in overtime through Howard's setup to Russell for the game-winning shot. The two teams are set to complete their series on Saturday at 4 pm.