In a tightly contested game, the Corpus Christi IceRays secured a 3-1 victory over the Grit in the first game of a two-game series.
The Colorado Grit kicked off the first period with intense energy, and struck first with a pass from Sheldon Rioux bounced off the skate of Landon West and found the back of the net. The tally was just the third power play goal surrendered by the Ice Rays this season. The goal also marked West’s first goal of the season.
The IceRays led in the second period as they opened with a quick goal, followed by a second to extend their lead, 2-1, midway through the frame.
A late surge came from Colorado in the third period and goaltender Jack Erickson finished with 26 saves, but a late 4-on-4 allowed Stepan Kuznetsov to capitalize with 3:13 to play and polish off the 3-1 decision.
The two teams will play four contests this season and split the season series 2-2-0-0 in 2024-25.