Stars Rally Loses Steam

The Texas Stars started hard but were held in check in the finish as they fell to the Colorado Eagles by a final score of 3-to-2.  The team split the two-game series. 

“I liked our start” said Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham. 

Luke Krys scored his first professional goal 35 seconds into his sixth professional game.   Krys, a Providence College graduate, signed a two-year entry-level contract on March 19. 

The remainder of the first period belonged to the Eagles, starting with Jason Polin who buried the puck at 5:04.  Brad Hunt’s goal three minutes gave Colorado the lead.  And Keaton Middleton closed out the scoring with 25 second remaining in the period with his fifth goal of the season. 

Colorado led 3-to-1 going into the first intermission. 

A scoreless second period led to a third period heavy on defense.  Texas and Colorado produced a combined 15 shots of goal.  Mavrik Bourque succeeded in breaking out in the ninth minute of the final frame to bring Texas within one goal, but the Stars could muster no more. 

“I think there are really more positives in a game like this,” said Graham.  “If this were a playoff game, you’d be dusting yourself off getting ready of game three and you’d try to make a tweak or two to make sure you win it.”   

Texas failed to convert on five power play opportunities.  Colorado converted on one of three man-advantage chance. 

“I think their penalty kill did a good job.  When they could pressure, they pressured well,” said Neil Graham.  “You have to give credit to your opponents.  They do have a good penalty kill.” 

Colorado goalkeeper Ivan Prosvetove (9-4-2)earned the win, making 29 saves against 31 shots.  Texas goaltender Ben Kraws (2-1-0) suffered the loss, allowing three goals against 24 shots.