GAME REPORT: Cup tie poised on knife edge ahead of Glasgow return leg

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It’s all to play for in the Challenge Cup for Glasgow Clan after taking a creditable 1-1 draw from Dundee Stars in the first leg of their quarter-final contest.

The tie was left on a knife-edge as both clubs will meet again on Wednesday 11th December to decide the first semi-final spot in the competition.

With a good record over the Clan, Dundee Stars clearly fancied their chances of taking something from the game as they looked for a first ever last four berth.

But Glasgow’s experience of having done it last season and their recent form as they find themselves top of the table always meant the favourites tag was leaning towards Zack Fitzgerald’s men.

The opening exchanges was a little edgy as they found their way into the game, with Jack Musil seeing an early chance blocked while Colton Kroeker saw his shot deflected high.

Further opportunities came from Nolan LaPorte and Matt Haywood, but to no avail and the tone was set for this quarter-final clash.

Stars seemed to enjoy a spell of pressure in the first that saw Patrick Killeen and the defensive lines under the cosh, with Drydn Dow, Kevin Dufour and Elgin Pearce all have looks at goal, but they were dealt with well.

Brett Stovin even fired a shot on to the bar, but there was still no way through as the first period ended with no goals to show for the efforts.

Clan were the team to go ahead within a minute of the restart as LaPorte’s chance was turned in by Rau to put them ahead.

Alex Leclerc, the Dundee goalie, had to be on his toes and dealt with chances from LaPorte then one from Travis Ehrhardt well to keep Glasgow to one.

Stars levelled as they burst forward, with Kris Inglis teeing up Anthony Beauregard to deliver a finish that put the score at 1-1.

The third period was to become something of a war of attrition as Stars and Clan looked to gain the advantage in this two-legged affair.

Linden Springer saw one diverted away by Leclerc, while Rasmus Bjerrum also went close as the minutes ticked down.

Despite a late effort by Travis Ehrhardt to get their noses ahead in the final minute, it wasn’t to be as this first leg ended honours even and an exciting second leg to come in just under three weeks’ time.

 

View the game sheet HERE