Stars go fifth with narrow win over Blaze

Photo: Derek Black

Dundee Stars went fifth in the Premier Sports Elite League standings thanks to a tight win over Coventry Blaze on Sunday night.

Coventry led after 20 minutes at the Dundee Ice Arena, and not undeservedly after a good opening period on the road. Janne Kivilahti scored the only goal of the opening 20 minutes with a nice shot past Brython Preece with 3:46 played. The Blaze could have extended their lead were it not for the Stars' netminder pulling off several important saves before the buzzer.

Dundee came out strong in period two and nit the pipes, as well as seeing CJ Motte deny two quick chances from Philippe Sanche, before they draw level. Sebastian Bengtsson tied the game at 29:32, picking his spot past a screened Motte but arguably given too much time to line his shot up in the offensive zone.

Four minutes later, the hosts had turned the game on its head and took the lead - Kyle Haas fired from the point with Sanche tipping in front of Motte to put Dundee 2-1 up. 

The sides traded chances in a third period that saw both takes take numerous penalties. Dundee could have given themselves some breathing space with a 5-on-3 advantage but weren't able to take advantage. Coventry came back to full strength inside the final minute and had a couple of half looks at Preece's net but Dundee held on for two big points in the middle of the table.