I cheated a bit and went ahead and read Chapter 11 (though I was already aware of the significant changes between the anime and the manga).
I just don't look at it the same way. The ending is different in the anime, yes. A bit cliche, sure. But if you're an animation house with no idea if there will be a second season you need to create a relatively satisfying conclusion but with enough "wiggle room" for adding a second season. I feel Madhouse did so.
That's just my opinion.