(Photo:Amanda Luberto/WCSN)
The Arizona State Sun Devils Division II Elite team halted an attempt at a third period rally as they defeated the Michigan State Spartans 3-1 at Oceanside Ice Arena on Saturday night. In a hard fought defensive battle that featured more penalty minutes (52) than shots (44), a mid-third period goal by Sun Devil forward Jason Kuta sealed the win and the two game sweep.
Both teams were held scoreless in the first period despite several opportunities. Michigan State was on the power play three times but unable to capitalize. The Sun Devils had two power play opportunities but were held to just eight shots in the period compared with the Spartans nine.
The second period started with a cross-checking penalty by Michigan State forward Trevor McSween and the Sun Devils capitalized on a goal from Dan Sterna giving them a 1-0 lead three minutres in. Almost five minutes later, after a few missed opportunities on power plays, Andrew Hefter was able to connect on an assist from Jason Kuta, giving the Sun Devils a 2-0 lead. The second period saw the game get very chippy as the teams combined for nine penalties.
There were not as many penalties in the third period but the intensity level was certainly just as high. A roughing call on Justin Havriliak gave the Spartans a power play opportunity that they quickly took advantage of. Tyler Van Acker got one past Sun Devil goalie Kyle Dietriech to cut the lead to 2-1.
The Spartans were very aggressive in the third period but were only able to get five shots on goal. A turnover near center ice turned into a breakaway goal for Jason Kuta and the Sun Devils had a 3-1 lead with ten minutes remaining. Despite three more penalities, including a ten minute misconduct on Brady Morgan for roughing with five minutes left, the Sun Devils were able to hold on for the win.
The Sun Devils have a quick turn around from the rough series as they take on Utah Sunday afternoon. The Utes are coming of a two game series in Flagstaff against NAU so fatigue could play a factor for both teams. The puck drops at 1:10pm at Oceanside Ice Arena in Tempe
