Spartans get upset split at Cornell

The 10th-ranked Michigan State Spartans scored four second-period goals and freshman Jeff Lerg made 22 saves as the Spartans posted a 4-3 win over second-ranked Cornell last Saturday to gain a split in the two-game series. Tyler Howells had a pair of goals and Bryan Lerg (left) assisted on all four goals to pace the offensive attack for MSU.

"I thought Jeff Lerg was terrific tonight," MSU head coach Rick Comley said. "I was very happy with Jeff's performance, especially when you consider the fact that he's playing in his first college game in this type of atmosphere. It was an important game, and he responded well."

Tim Crowder and Brandon Warner also scored for the Spartans. For the junior Warner, it was his first collegiate goal.

Comley added that though Cornell was ranked No. 2 heading into the weekend, MSU didn't stand around and give them that respect.

"Cornell is a very physical team," added Comley. "They certainly couldn't play in our league because they would get called for too many penalties. Cornell plays a tough, physical game and tonight, our guys battled to match the intensity. This is a big win for us."

Friday night, MSU captain Drew Miller scored both goals in a 4-2 defeat. Dominic Vicari stopped 18 shots.

The Spartans return to Munn Ice Arena for their first home CCHA series this weekend when Northern Michigan comes to East Lansing. Game time both nights is 7:05 p.m.