Stars Out-Duke Griffins

Nineteen penalties, 13 power plays, and a five-goal second period led to a wild contest between the Texas Stars (7-4-2-1) and the Grand Rapids Griffins (4-6-1-1), ultimately seeing the Stars win 4-to-2. 

Grand Rapids’ Tim Gettinger found the back of the net in the first minute of the second period to give the Griffins a 1-to-0 lead.  Unphased, Texas’ Fredick Karlstrom evened the score just 16 second later. 

 “We pride ourselves in trying to stay (emotionally) neutral.  It’s not always easy to do, especially in loud environments where emotions get high,” said Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham, commenting on the goal.  “Our guys do a real good job of resetting themselves, staying present, and trying to focus on the next play.” 

It took another ten minutes, but Riley Damiani gave the Stars a 2-to-1 lead on a power play.   Michael Karow’s goal a minute and one-half later gave Texas a 3-to-1 advantage. Logan Stankoven made it 4-to-1 for the Stars in the closing second of the middle frame, also on a power play. 

The Griffins were able to rally midway through the final period on Taro Hirose’s power play goal.  But the visitors could muster no more. 

Texas converted on two of seven man-advantage opportunities.  Grand Rapids converted on one of six chances. 

The Stars seem to have found their chemistry, after a slow start to the season. 

 “Everyone wants it to happen immediately, and we’re no different.  But you have to understand, sometimes, especially when it’s a skilled position, it takes a little bit of time,” said Graham.  “We’ve had a couple different looks.  We’ve changed a few things at times.  But overall their just finding their rhythm a little bit.”

Texas’ Matt Murray (4-2-1) earned the win, making 26 save against 28 shots.  Grand Rapids’ Sebastian Cossa suffered the loss, allowing four goal on 29 shots.