Texas Rallies to Defeat Coachella Valley

Down by two goals in the opening period, the Texas Stars rallied to defeat the Coachella Valley Firebirds 4-to-3 in overtime.  Logan Stankoven scored the game-winning goal with six seconds left in the overtime period.

“I liked our whole-body work.  We came out well, we came out on time, and believe me, they had some pace early and they are a very good hockey club.  Even when we were down 2-0 I like how we played,” said Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham. 

The Firebirds jumped to an early lead with Jimmy Schuldt’s goal seven minutes into the game, followed by Shane Wright’s strike a minute later. 

Undeterred, the Stars fought back in the period with goals by Keaton Mastrodonato and Mavrik Bourque to even the score.  Mastrodonato’s goal was his first in the AHL.

“He was great.  It was his third game with us this year.  I think each game he’s grabbed a little bit more,” said Graham of Mastrodonato.  “You can’t help but love it to see a guy grab opportunity like that.” 

Coachella Valley reclaimed the match’s momentum on John Hayden’s short-handed goal in the 11th minute of the second period.  Texas remained strong and tied the contest in the period’s  final minute on Kyle McDonald’s score. 

The final frame was scoreless, forcing overtime. 

Logan Stankoven brought home the win for Texas near the end of the five-minute overtime period. 

Reflecting on Stankoven’s goal, Graham offered: “The OT winner was the icing on the cake, for a guy who created, for a guy that worked.  He’s always going to get in there.” 

Texas defender Gavin White had a noteworthy night, assisting on Mastrodonato’s, Boruque’s and Stankoven’s goals.

“He’s had more purpose to his preparation, his focus,” said Graham of White’s contribution.  “He’s figuring out somethings that are bringing him success, and he’s replicated it.  It’s all about finding opportunity.  He’s finding his opportunity.  He’s making the most of it.” 

Star’s netminder Matt Murray earned the win, making 15 saves against 16 shots.  Murray replaced Remi Poirier after allowing two goals.  Firebird’s goaltender Chris Driedger endured the loss allowing four goals on 31 shots. 

The Stars and the Firebirds meet again tomorrow.  Looking forward to Saturday’s match Graham offered, “refuel, reset, we’ll see you tomorrow.”