Lakers off to semifinals for first time since '96

Lake Superior State held Miami to just two goals last weekend and the Lakers upset the RedHawks on the road in two straight games to advance to the CCHA semifinals this Friday at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

Both games were 2-1 Laker wins and LSSU goalie Jeff Jakaitis was stellar. The senior stopped 37 shots Friday and 44 on Saturday.

Friday, Jeffrey Rainville (pictured) and Derek A. Smith scored top open the third period, with Smith's being the game-winner at 9:57 of the period. Trent Campbell assisted on both goals.

Then Saturday, Rainville continued his postseason surge by potting both goals, including the dramatic game-winner at 16:16 of the third period.

Lake Superior State will take on No. 1 seed Notre Dame at 4:30 p.m. Friday. The Lakers (21-17-3), the No. 4 seed, are making their first appearance in the CCHA semifinals since 1996. LSSU and Notre Dame (29-6-3) will be meeting in the playoffs for the first time.