Houston beats OKC, forces Game 4

OKLAHOMA CITY , Okla. – The visiting Aeros shut-out the Barons in Game 3 of the Western Division Quarter Finals.  
 

After a scoreless first period, Houston took their first lead of the series when Brett Bulmer scored from the slot.   This was an even strength goal at 11:26 of the second period, and Bulmer’s first post-season score.   This would be the only goal of the game.   “It all started down ice, in the offensive zone, we did not get the puck down deep. It ended up coming back the other way, and costing us.”  
 
Oklahoma City has several power-play chances, including a 5-on-3 for a full two minutes.   However the Barons were not able to score.   “Our power-play was atrocious, we had some chances and we didn’t burry them,” said Nelson.   The Barons had seven power-play opportunities, while the Aeros had two.
 
Due to injuries to both Matt Hackett and Darcy Kuemper, newcomer Mike Brodeur got the start in net.   “You have got to give Houston credit, they played a really strong game,” said Nelson.   “Their goaltender played well and their penalty kill was outstanding.”  
 
This shut-out was Brodeur’s first of the post-season, as well as first with the Aeros. However he is no stranger to shut-outs, as he has earned them in the ECHL, AHL with Rochester and Binghamton, and in the NHL with Ottawa.   He was also a member of the 2011 Calder Cup Champion Team.  
 
Tyler Pitlick played the point on the power-play late in the third period.   “Even in the third period, we dominated the play and had chances,” said Danis.   Mark Arcobello rang a shot off the post mid-way thru the final period.   However the Barons were unable to score.   “It was a lack of focus tonight, it was pretty apparent,” said Nelson.   Goaltender Yann Danis was pulled with 1:18 remaining in the contest and last year’s Calder Cup Champion Captain Ryan Keller was the extra skater.     
 
As with numerous times this season, one goal was the difference in the game.     “We knew it had been close all year, so we didn’t expect anything else,” said Yann Danis.   “We have got to stick to our system.   It is the play-offs; it is not easy to win three or four in a row.”     
 
Barons Captain Bryan Helmer was complimentary of Danis.   “Yann has been unbelievable for use all year.   He gave us a chance to win and we didn’t get it done,” said Helmer.   Danis faced 21 shots on goal, while Brodeur faced 31.
 
Oklahoma City has a two to one game lead over Houston, and would like to close-out the series.   “We have got to learn from this game: come out from the start, play a full 60-minutes and find a way to get this done,” said Helmer.   Game 4 will be played Tuesday night in Oklahoma City.
 
Contact the author at gail.hamill@prohockeynews.com