Spartans Rally But Lose in Overtime to Hokies

Michigan State battled back from a 5-1 deficit early in the second quarter to take the lead 7-6 with five minutes to go in the game but could not hold on as #11 Virginia Tech scored a goal with six seconds remaining in regulation to tie the game 7-7. Virginia Tech scored three man-up goals in the first quarter as the Spartan's aggressive defense and ground ball play resulted in penalties. The Spartans offense had the looks they wanted and also enjoyed several man-up situations but could not find the goal early.

The Spartans dominated play after Virginia Tech went up 5-1 with 13:03 remaining in the second quarter, with controlled possessions and high-pressure defense and rides - until the final 35 seconds of the game. Michigan State had regained possession of the ball leading by one goal after Virginia Tech was called for a technical foul during their clear with five long poles on the field. MSU attempted to run out the clock - turning down 1:1 opportunities to shoot at the Hokie goalie - but lost the ball on a Virginia Tech double team with 17 seconds remaining, and the Hokies were able to clear the ball into their offensive zone to take their final time out with 10 seconds remaining. On the inbound play, #48 for Virginia Tech dodged top-side to his left but then beat the Spartan defense down the right side and was able to convert on a bounce shot from four yards out to send the game into overtime.

The Hokies won the face off to start overtime and needed just the first possession and 90 seconds to score the winning goal from short range after a pass from the X position found a streaking Hokie player on the crease.

Michigan State  fell to 1-3 to start the season on their annual spring break trip. The Spartans played three teams ranked in the top 20 of MCLA Division 1 and also then-#31 Auburn during the eight day trip. They traveled over 2,100 miles and spent 40 hours on their motor coach.

The Spartans kick off their CCLA D1 conference schedule with a home opener on March 17 vs #27 Davenport. Game time is 7:00 pm EDT at Ralph Young Field on the Michigan State Campus.