Dearborn, MI - The hockey team proved that the long break in between games did not make them rusty. Michigan-Dearborn defeated Oakland University 5-3 Friday night. Oakland jumped out on top just a minute and a half into the game. Just 43 seconds later freshman Tyler Dalton tied the game up with junior Gino Darin and freshman Kevin Bechard assisting on Dalton's fourth goal of the season. The Wolverines would strike twice late in the first period with sophomore Marcus McSweeney scoring on the power play. Then with only 50 seconds remaining in the first period sophomore Jeff McFarland scored to make the game 3-1 after the first period.
In the second period, freshman Tyler Groat scored twice just 28 seconds apart. Both of Groat's goals were unassisted and gave him 26 goals on the season. Oakland would score just a minute later making the score 5-2 heading into the third period. Oakland would score early in the third period, but the Michigan-Dearborn defense would shut down Oakland's offense only allowing five shots on goal in the third period as the Wolverines won 5-3. Sophomore goalie Nate Ferris made 20 saves in earning his 13th win of the season. Groat finished the game with two goals and one assist while Dalton added one goal and one assist.
The two teams were scheduled to faceoff Saturday at 1:00pm at Clark Park, but Mother Nature had other ideas. The rain and higher than average temperatures have caused the game to be canceled due to poor ice conditions.