Michigan State Defeats Penn State in Big Ten Hockey Matchup

Spartans' Anthony Romani records hat trick in 6-3 road victory

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Michigan State hockey earned a key road win over Penn State on Friday night, defeating the Nittany Lions 6-3 in a chippy Big Ten conference matchup. The Spartans were led by a hat trick performance from forward Anthony Romani, while Porter Martone, Daniel Russell, and Owen West also scored goals in the victory.

Why it matters

This win is crucial for Michigan State's positioning in the Big Ten standings, as the two teams were previously tied for first place in the conference. The rivalry between these two programs has intensified in recent years, making this an important early-season showdown.

The details

Michigan State jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, capitalizing on a strong offensive performance. The game featured several penalties, including game misconducts for MSU's Colin Ralph and PSU's Gavin McKenna. The two teams will square off again on Saturday in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium to conclude the weekend series.

  • The game took place on Friday, January 31, 2026.
  • The two teams will play again on Saturday, February 1, 2026 in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium.

The players

Anthony Romani

Michigan State forward who recorded a hat trick in the win.

Porter Martone

Michigan State forward who scored a goal in the victory.

Daniel Russell

Michigan State forward who scored a goal in the game.

Owen West

Michigan State forward who scored a goal in the win.

Colin Ralph

Michigan State player who received a game misconduct penalty.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge win for us on the road against a top team in the conference. The guys really battled and Anthony Romani had an outstanding game for us.”

— Cory Linsner, Spartans Wire Reporter

What’s next

The two teams will face off again on Saturday, February 1, 2026 in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium to conclude the weekend series.

The takeaway

Michigan State's victory over Penn State in this Big Ten hockey showdown keeps them firmly in the conference title race, while also showcasing the growing rivalry between these two programs. The Spartans will look to build on this momentum as they head into the outdoor game on Saturday.