Wisconsin Badgers Shock Michigan State in 5-4 Comeback Victory

EAST LANSING, Mich. – The University of Wisconsin men’s hockey team pulled off a stunning 5-4 victory over No. 1 Michigan State on Friday night at Munn Ice Arena, powered by a remarkable four-goal second period.

Michigan State (9-2-0, 4-1-0 Big Ten) took an early lead with a goal from Daniel Russel at 8:00 in the first period, followed by a power-play goal from Porter Martone at 12:26, making it 2-0. However, Wisconsin (9-2-2, 5-2-0 Big Ten) rallied back in the second period, scoring four consecutive goals to take a commanding 4-2 lead.

Senior forward Samuel Fitzgerald struck first during the second period, converting a power-play opportunity just over one minute into the frame. Freshman forward Zach Montgomery followed up at 4:11, only to be followed by sophomore forward Aidan Pietila’s goal at 11:19, allowing Wisconsin to claim their first lead of the night. Senior forward Tyson Dyck capped the period with a goal at 15:55.

As the final period began, Michigan State fought back, narrowing the gap with a goal from Ryker Lee at 9:34, making it 4-3. But Wisconsin quickly restored their two-goal advantage with a response from freshman forward Jacob Botterill at 9:50. The Spartans scored again through Martone at 10:24, yet Wisconsin held on tightly to secure the victory, ending MSU’s nine-game winning streak.

Wisconsin’s solid performance was highlighted by strong goaltending from freshman Tanner Pulver, who recorded 35 saves and secured his first victory as a Badger. “It was a challenge out there, but my teammates were awesome,” Pulver said postgame.

Wisconsin’s victory ties them with Michigan at the top of the Big Ten standings. The team’s next game is against Michigan State again on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 6 p.m. CT.