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Michigan hockey advances to NCAA quarterfinals with win over AIC

Chris Balasby: Chris Balas03/25/22Balas_Wolverine
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The Michigan Wolverines lost two games to Notre Dame in hockey this weekend. (Photo by Michigan hockey)

Michigan hockey rode a quick start and a strong second period to a 5-3 win over American International College (AIC) in first round NCAA Tournament play. Five different Wolverines scored goals to lead U-M into Sunday’s quarterfinal.

RELATED: Another ‘what might have been’ & a frustrating ending for Michigan Basketball

The Wolverines will play Friday night’s winner between Saint Cloud State and Quinnipiac.

Michigan came out flying, scoring two goals in the first 4:16 from improbable sources to grab a quick 2-0 lead. Senior left wing Garrett Van Wyhe scored his fifth of the year and freshman defenseman Ethan Edwards his third only 4:16 into the game.

The Wolverines were buzzing from the outset, carrying the play, and seemed primed to end it early.

AIC, however, battled back to make it a game at the end of the first. Brian Rigali scored off the back of defenseman Luke Hughe to cut it to 2-1.

Michigan started the second period on the power play, and they got the momentum back by carrying the play. Sophomores Matty Beniers and Brendan Brisson both scored their 20th goals of the season in the first 2:43 to give U-M a commanding lead. Brisson’s one-timer on a slap shot hit the back of the net before goalie Alec Calvaruso had a chance to react.

The Yellow Jackets’ Justin Young scored at 13:45 of the second period after a Michigan turnover to cut it to 4-2. Freshman left wing Dylan Duke got it back almost immediately, though, to restore the three-goal lead. The play was reviewed for offsides, but it was determined the puck went into the zone off AIC.

The goal was allowed to stand, and Michigan regained its three-goal edge.

AIC picked up a late goal with 6:12 remaining, but it wasn’t enough. The Wolverines held on for the 5-3 win and advance to a 6:30 quarterfinal Sunday (6:30, ESPN2). If they win there, they’ll play in the April 7 Frozen Four in Boston.

The Wolverines, the tournament’s No. 1 overall seed, improved to 30-9-1 overall with the win. They lead the country with nine national championships, though they haven’t captured one since 1998.

Goaltender Erik Portillo stopped 29 shots in the Michigan win.

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