Dallas Stars takeover Western Conference by defeating Washington Capitals 5-2 -NHL Match Update
Leaders of the Eastern Conference during the 2010-2011 National Hockey League (NHL) regular season, Washington, faced another disappointing loss on Tuesday as the Dallas Stars claimed the Western Conference’s top spot by beating the Capitals, 5-2, at the
sold-out Verizon Center in Washington, District of Columbia, United States.
Dallas continued their best performance in recent years by winning their fourth straight and having improved their record to an impressive 11-3 in the 14 games they have contested so far in the 2011-2012 regular season, giving them 22 points, the highest
in the league.
"This was an especially nice win", said Dallas goaltender, Kari Lehtonen, who stopped 30 shots. "I'm sure a lot of people were watching this game to see how we do against an elite team like Washington".
Winning against a team like the Capitals boosted their confidence even more as new coach, Glen Gulutzan, has certainly proved himself thus far by leading one of the worst teams last season to a much better start.
"It's a good measuring stick for us", Dallas head coach, Glen Gulutzan, said. "We're trying to gauge ourselves against the league, coming into Washington and then heading to Pittsburgh and Detroit. Tonight we liked our game. It just gives us confidence moving
forward".
Michael Ryder potted his fifth of the season and opening goal of the night midway through the first while Alexander Semin levelled it nearly five minutes later on their first power play opportunity.
Ryder scored once again to put Dallas ahead with less than three minutes remaining, ending the period with Washington down by one.
John Carlson scored the only goal of the second period putting Washington back in the match and forcing a third period with both teams tied, 2-2.
Dallas did not let the pressure get to them of the home crowd and potted three straight as Adam Burish, Jamie Benn and Eric Nystrom each contributed a goal to ultimately secure the match before halfway through the third.
The Stars have the next two matchups on the road, as they face tough competition against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday, followed by Detroit Red Wings the next day on Saturday.
Washington Capitals will hope to snap their losing streak when they visit the Devils in New Jersey on Friday.
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