Lansing Sun

Michigan State University advanced to the Great Lakes Invitational final after defeating Northern Michigan University 2-0 in a semifinal match on Sunday. The game, held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, marked the Spartans' return from the holiday break and their second consecutive appearance in the GLI championship.

Sophomore goalie Luca Di Pasquo played a crucial role in securing the victory for MSU with his second shutout of the season, making 16 saves. "MSU outshot the Wildcats 48-16 in the game," according to reports. Both teams played without any penalties throughout the match.

The Spartans scored both goals during the first period. Karsen Dorwart opened the scoring at 10:27 with his fourth goal of the season. Isaac Howard followed at 12:40 by forcing a turnover and doubling MSU's lead. Howard's goal was noted as his tenth of the season, marking a personal career best.

The Wildcats' goalies Ryan Oullette and Ethan Barwick combined for a total of 46 saves, with Oullette contributing 41 and Barwick adding five more. Despite their efforts, NMU blocked only seven shots compared to MSU's defense blocking 23 shots from their opponents.

"The Spartans (14-2-1, 6-1-1 B1G) will play No. 6 Western Michigan in the GLI finals on Monday at 7 pm," as per schedule details provided. Western Michigan secured its spot in the final by defeating Michigan Tech with a score of 4-3 in overtime earlier that day.

Additional statistics highlighted MSU's defensive prowess as they achieved their fourth shutout this season over seventeen games, with both sophomore goalies having two each.

In summary, Michigan State University's hockey team displayed strong performance both offensively and defensively against Northern Michigan University to advance to another GLI championship game appearance.