Michigan Triumphs in OT, Defeats No. 2 MSU with Perron’s Power-Play Goal
In a thrilling overtime clash, the Michigan Wolverines triumphed over No. 2 Michigan State, securing a 4-3 victory on February 6, 2023. The match took place at Yost Ice Arena and marked the 350th meeting between these storied rivals. This encounter was particularly noteworthy, as it was the first time both teams were ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in their history.
Game Highlights
The Wolverines demonstrated resilience, overcoming a two-goal deficit in the third period. T.J. Hughes, the team captain, extended his point streak to ten games, contributing two assists. Freshman goaltender Stephen Peck made 31 saves, improving his record to 6-0 this season.
Power-Play Decides the Game
The decisive moment came with less than four minutes remaining in overtime. Michigan earned a power play, allowing them to strategize against the Spartans’ penalty kill. Jayden Perron scored the power-play goal, clinching the win after receiving a pass from Michael Hage.
Scoring Breakdown
- First Period: Both teams entered the intermission tied at 1-1. MSU struck first at 15:14, only for Nick Moldenhauer to equalize less than two minutes later.
- Second Period: The Spartans regained the lead with two goals, entering the third period up 3-1.
- Third Period: Asher Barnett scored for U-M at 10:27, followed by Kienan Draper’s shorthanded goal that leveled the score at 3-3.
Statistics at a Glance
| Team | Goals | Shots on Goal | Faceoff Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 4 | 35 | 45 |
| Michigan State | 3 | 34 | 30 |
Looking Ahead
These two rivals will face off again in Detroit at the annual “Duel in the D” on February 7, 2023, with the puck set to drop at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on the Big Ten Network, and the teams will compete for the Iron “D” trophy, an accolade U-M has claimed in six of the last nine encounters.
