Playing understaffed didn't have too much of an effect on the Gophers.
The five remaining defensemen recovered from a slow start to hold Michigan State to only two goals in a 2-2 tie capped by a 2-1 shootout loss to the Spartans on Friday night at Mariucci Arena.
Michigan State scored twice midway through the first period, but wouldn't score again throughout the 52-plus minutes of regulation and overtime. Gophers coach Don Lucia was pleased to see the group hold up so well after the Spartans' early surge.
"I thought for the most part [the defensemen] did a good job. There were a couple times you could see they got a little fatigued and got caught out on shifts," Lucia said. "When you get really tired you can make some mental mistakes, but for the most part they hung in there pretty well tonight."
They were even part of the Gophers scoring. Mike Reilly, Brady Skjei and Justin Holl all were credited with an assist.
A sixth defenseman will be available for Saturday night's series finale. Ben Marshall returns from his one-game suspension, but will have to play a much more cautious game. Because he's already received three game misconduct penalties this season, any more result in another one-game suspension.
"It'll be better for the other guys back there," to have Marshall back, Lucia said. "They won't have to play as many minutes and if anyone can play a lot of minutes tomorrow it will be Marsh."
Read Friday's game story.
