Michigan State Triumphs Over Ohio State in MCRHL Conference Championships - AA Division

On Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, Michigan State (AA) defeated Ohio State (AA) 4-2 in a thrilling match to clinch the Championship. The game took place at the Salt Creek Sports Center in Palatine, IL.

First Period: The game kicked off fast, with Michigan State quickly taking control. At 2:42, Matthew Blaska gave MSU the lead with a goal assisted by Dante Gaudio and John Healey. Ohio State responded just over a minute later, at 3:58, when Tyler Ebare scored with the help of Jackson O'Hara. However, Michigan State regained the lead at 5:52 when Gaudio found the net, assisted by Healey. A power-play goal by Healey at 9:01, also assisted by Gaudio, gave MSU a solid 3-1 advantage heading into the second period.

Second Period: Ohio State showed resilience in the second period, narrowing the gap with a goal at 3:25. Jackson O'Hara capitalized on a play with Tanner Buck and Josh Curtin to make it 3-2. Despite a power-play penalty on MSU’s Owen Denker (high-sticking at 1:56), Ohio State was unable to capitalize on the man advantage, and the period ended with Michigan State maintaining its 3-2 lead.

Third Period: Michigan State sealed the victory in the third period with a crucial goal at 11:21. Jordan Emmer scored, with assists from Cristian Melara and Luke Washe, extending the lead to 4-2. With no penalties assessed in the final frame, MSU’s defense and goaltender Reis Davis held firm to secure the win.

Three Stars:

• 1st Star: John Healey (Michigan State) – 1 goal, 2 assists
• 2nd Star: Dante Gaudio (Michigan State) – 1 goal, 2 assists
• 3rd Star: Matthew Blaska (Michigan State) – 1 goal, 0 assists

Team Stats:

• Michigan State: 23 shots on goal, 4 goals
• Ohio State: 13 shots on goal, 2 goals

Goaltending:

• Michigan State: Reis Davis (36 minutes, 13 shots faced, 12 saves, 1 goal allowed)
• Ohio State: Rylan Petruk (36 minutes, 23 shots faced, 20 saves, 3 goals allowed)

Michigan State’s offensive depth and solid defensive play, particularly from Healey, Gaudio, and Blaska, proved too much for Ohio State. Despite a strong effort from Ohio State, including O'Hara’s two-point performance, Michigan State’s 4-2 victory ensured they captured the MCRHL Conference Championship in style.