The M-1 Griffins closed out the year as winners, defeating Chippewa Valley United 5-4 on Saturday at John Lindell Ice Arena. In a back and forth game, the Griffins held on tight to the lead, showcasing their skill and winning mindset once more. The team now holds a record of 9-1-0, and ranks seventh in MHSAA Division I.
Immediately, the Griffins took charge in the game, holding a 2-0 lead for a majority of the first period. However, Chippewa Valley scored a power play goal to narrow the lead with just under two minutes before the break, and another in under 20 seconds to tie the game 2-2 at the end of the first.
Junior Zach Steiner opened the scoring in the second period, putting the Griffins up 3-2, yet Chippewa Valley came right back, tying up the game once more. After about 3:30 minutes of play, junior captain Charlie Price pushed the team right back into the lead, closing out the second period 4-3.
Much of the third consisted of strong defense, as no team conceded a goal until about half way through the period when senior Lucas McInerney broke the ice, giving the team a two-goal lead against the opposition. With 2:34 left in the game, Chippewa Valley responded with a goal to close the lead on M-1, setting the score at 5-4.
With merely two minutes left in the game, the Griffins drew a cross checking penalty, putting them down a man for much of the remainder of the game. Chippewa Valley looked to capitalize on this opportunity, pulling their goalie to allow for an extra offensive player, creating a 6 on 4 scenario. Despite the circumstances, the team was able to kill off the penalty, securing the Griffin’s ninth win of the season.
Sophomore goalie Todd Butler faced 32 shots for the game, saving 28 to account for a .875 SV%. Seven different players tallied points during the game, but Price (1G 2A) and Steiner (2G 1A) stood atop the tables, each accounting for three points during the night. The M-1 Griffins take on Plymouth High School next on Friday, January 5th at John Lindell Ice Arena.
