Saturday night’s Big Ten semifinal was a hockey thriller, featuring Philadelphia Flyers prospects Porter Martone and Shane Vansaghi as their Michigan State Spartans took on the Ohio State Buckeyes. In a nail-biting clash that extended into overtime, the Buckeyes emerged victorious, sending the tournament favorites packing.
Ohio State 3, Michigan State 2 (OT)
With a Big Ten championship berth at stake and Michigan State eyeing a three-peat, the intensity was palpable from the start. The Spartans initially dominated, generating quality scoring chances, but Ohio State quickly countered, shifting the momentum.
Shane Vansaghi set the tone early, netting a one-timer to give the Spartans a 1-0 lead. It was only his fourth goal in 33 games, but Vansaghi’s move to his off-wing has sparked an uptick in his offensive play. Although he scored from the left, he was primarily back on the right wing, centered by Cayden Lindstrom.
Despite Michigan State’s early shot advantage, Ohio State leveled the score midway through the first period. As the opening frame wound down, coincidental roughing minors were assessed to Maxim Strbak and Felix Caron, setting the stage for 4-on-4 play to kick off the second period. Ohio State capitalized on a 4-on-3 power play when Jake Karabela unleashed a shot from the right circle, putting the Buckeyes ahead.
The game’s physicality escalated from there. Strbak was on the receiving end of a hit that could have been called boarding, but no penalty was given. The incident seemed to ignite Strbak’s play, adding an edge to the game’s already high intensity.
With just over three minutes left in the second period, Michigan State capitalized on a power play after Eric Nilson’s high-sticking penalty. Martone finished a slick passing play to tie the game at two. Martone’s prowess on the power play is undeniable, especially from the left circle, where his shot continues to be a nightmare for goalies.
Early in the third, Michigan State faced a critical 5-on-3 penalty kill after Charlie Stramel’s high-sticking infraction. The Spartans held firm, keeping the game tied and setting up a thrilling final period. Despite dominating stretches and hitting the post multiple times, Michigan State couldn’t get past Ohio State’s goaltender Kristoffer Eberly for a third goal.
In overtime, just 2:36 in, Caron received a drop pass and unleashed a slap shot that found its way through a screened Trey Augustine, sending Ohio State to the Big Ten Final against Michigan.
Looking Back and Ahead
While Michigan State’s conference play ended on a sour note, Martone’s season was nothing short of spectacular. With 1.42 points per game, he ranked second in the Big Ten and fourth nationally, while leading the conference with 0.72 goals per game. His consistent production was a highlight, finishing with 24 goals and 23 assists over 33 games.
Now, the focus for Martone, Vansaghi, and the Spartans shifts to the NCAA Tournament. Despite the abrupt end to their Big Ten run, Michigan State’s 25-8-2 record ensures their spot in the tournament. The big question now is where they’ll be seeded in the bracket.