Michigan teams win in first night of CCHA playoffs

Lake Superior 4, Alaska 3 – The Lakers posted a 4-3 win over the Nanooks Friday night to take the first of a three-game series. After the Nanooks took the early lead, the Lakers responded with goals from Domenic Monardo and Zach Trotman in the final 2:50 of the first period. Buddy Robinson gave LSSU a 3-1 lead with his goal at the 4:52 mark of the second period. Alaska opened up the third period with a goal 14 seconds in, but Kellan Lain’s goal just 46 seconds later regained the two-goal spread for the Lakers. A late strike with the goalie pulled wasn’t enough for the Nanooks, as the Lakers prevailed 4-3. Kevin Kapalka made 36 saves between the pipes for the Lakers.

—

Northern Michigan 4, Bowling Green 2 – The Wildcats have the same exact match-up in the first round as they did last year, and now they’re off to the same start. The question will be is if they can break the cycle tomorrow night. Northern Michigan topped Bowling Green 4-2 to pick up the opening-night win. Justin Florek, Andrew Cherniwchan, Tyler Gron, and Ryan Daughtery all scored for the Wildcats, while Jared Coreau had 31 saves in goal. The Wildcats will certainly not look past tomorrow night’s game, however; last year, the Falcons rallied to win two straight games and advance to the quarterfinals.

—

Notre Dame 2, Ohio State 0 – The Buckeyes continue to plummet. After holding the No. 1 spot in the country earlier this season, they’re now on the verge of getting knocked out in the first round of the CCHA playoffs. The Fighting Irish posted a 2-0  win on home ice, powered by two goals from Billy Maday. Steven Summerhays had 33 saves to earn the shutout for Notre Dame.