Mike Ribeiro’s two goals help Dallas Stars overcoming Nashville Predators 4-1– NHL Update
Mike Ribeiro’s two goals in the first period set up the momentum, which was build upon by Dallas Stars for the rest game as they overcame Nashville Predators, 4-1, on Thursday, January 5, 2012, at the Bridgestone Arena.
Sadly for the winners, their star scorer was smacked by the speedy puck in the second period. Ribeiro lost two teeth owing to the hit and was benched. However, despite the injury, he took the rink again later and ensured that his team ended Predators’ three-game
winning streak.
"He's not as good-looking as he was before," Stars coach Glen Gulutzan said of Ribeiro. "He's lost some teeth and he's got some stitches in his mouth and he's swelled up pretty good. But we're just thankful it wasn't a broken jaw or anything like that. It's
teeth and just his looks that took the whack."
Ribeiro was the first one to score in the game. At 4:18, Loui Eriksson and Brenden Morrow assisted him to open Stars’ account.
A firm response came from the Predators after around four minutes. At 8:31, Gabriel Bourque scored his first goal of the season, thanks to Jordin Tootoo and Nick Spaling.
Unfortunately for the Predators, that was the only moment to cheer for them during the game. The scores did not remain level for a long time and the Predators spent the rest of the time trying to get an edge over the opponents, who were not in a mood to
surrender.
Near the end of the first period, the Stars snatched the lead back from the Predators. At 19:21, Loui Erikson and Nicklas Grossman assisted Ribeiro for his eighth goal of the season.
The second period saw only one scoring move. At 6:28, the Stars stretched their lead when Jamie Benn scored his 11th goal of the season.
In the final quarter, the Stars continued their dominant run and extended their lead further. At 12:53, Adam Burish scored Stars’ fourth and final goal of the game. The goal was assisted by Tom Wandell and Jamie Benn.
Predators’ captain, Shea Weber, who missed the last four games due to a concussion, did not have a pleasant comeback night.
Seeing the team losing was not what he might have expected. Adding to his worries, he was not feeling hundred per cent fit during the game.
“I think my conditioning was pretty good, actually. I felt good skating. My hands just weren’t quite where I want them to be yet,” he said.
The Predators are ranked fourth in the Central Division with 21 victories under their belt. They are going to take on Carolina Hurricanes this weekend.
On the other hand, the Stars, who are ranked third in the Pacific Division, got their 22nd win of the season. They are going to face Edmonton Oilers on Saturday, January 7, 2012.
Tags: