Dexter Wallace The Alchemists defeated the Ocean Kings 5-4 and are headed to the semifinals game against the Sharks
CALIFORNIA — The Alchemists are through to the semifinals of the Atlantic Playoffs after a 5-4 win over the Ocean Kings at The Alchemists Arena, a second-round game that swung both ways before the home side closed it out in the third period.
The Alchemists led 2-1 after the first period and 4-3 after two, but the Ocean Kings pulled level twice and had the crowd holding its breath until the final horn. It was Connor Starkson who made the difference: 3 goals and 2 assists from the captain, including the goal that put the game away.
“We knew they would keep coming,” Starkson said afterwards. “Every time we scored they answered, so the third period was about staying patient and trusting the system. The guys in front of the net did the hard work tonight.”
The win sends the Alchemists to Tampa Bay for a semifinal series against the Sharks, who swept their own second-round matchup. The first game is scheduled for next week; tickets go on sale to season-ticket holders on Monday and to the public on Wednesday.
Article Comments (4)
Robert Stark
What a night. The third period had me on my feet the whole time, and Starkson is playing the best hockey of his career.
Samantha Rodgers
Credit to the Ocean Kings too, they never gave up. That equalizer in the second period was a beauty, but our defense held when it mattered.
Jake Stevens
Agreed, and the penalty kill late in the third was the moment of the game for me. On to Tampa Bay!
Alexander Black
Semifinals against the Sharks. Their goalie has been unbeatable at home this spring, so we will need the same power play we had tonight.