Comeback Falls Short, IceHogs over Stars

The  Texas Stars scored twice in the final three minutes but were unable to complete the comeback as they fell 4-3 to the Rockford IceHogs.

“In a big game like this, you see what you’re capable of, when your backs are against the wall,” said Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham after the game. “It wasn’t a lack of effort. It was a lack of ability to execute in important moments.”

The first period was a back-and-forth affair that looked to end in a scoreless draw until Rockford’s Rem Pitlick beat goaltender Matt Murray late. 

The Stars responded early in the second period, tying the game on Curtis McKenzie’s effort.  Momentum shifted to the IceHogs midway through the frame starting with Ryder Rolston’s goal at 11:21 followed by Colton Dach’s score three minutes later. 

Texas fought fiercely in the final period but was unable to penetrate the Rockford defenses.  Down by two goals, Graham elected to pull his goaltender with five minutes remaining in the game.  Rockford’s Jaley Luypen promptly scored against the empty net. 

Down three goals, Texas return goalkeeper Matt Murray.  Less than a minute later Texas’ Fredrik Karlstrom beat Rockford goalie Jaxson Stauber for a short-handed goal, bring the Stars again within two goals. 

Texas returned to the empty net strategy and the Stars’ Oskar Back scored on a power play with 18 seconds remaining. 

Texas goalkeeper Murray endured the loss, allowing three goals against 26 shots.  Rockford netminder Stauber enjoyed the win, also allowing three goals but against 34 shots.