In the final game of the Health Awareness Series, the Rhinos gave up game three and the series on Sunday afternoon.
Angus Campbell, concluded the series back in the net in game three after giving an outstanding performance in Saturday’s game. The Rhinos started the first period with one the division’s leading scorers, Chaseton Sare, stealing the first 1-0 lead of the night. The Blazers clapped back, almost immediately, with Joel Leckstrom and the other starting OKC Blazers, tying the game, 1-1. Campbell kept OKC’s shots out of the net and Sare scored again, helping El Paso gain a 2-1 lead. With the Rhinos on top in the conclusion of the first period, OKC stomped through the ice for another lead change. The score stood at 3-2, in favor of the division leaders.
The second period remained quiet until OKC charged at the Rhinos for another Blazer goal made by Pavel Oxiouta just before the eight minute mark. Oklahoma City was charged with minor high-sticking penalties but, still managed a shorthanded goal. El Paso changed goalies with Artur Pavliukov toward the end of the second period but, the Blazers still scored again for the 6-2 lead out to end the second period.
The Blazers netted the final goal of the series in the third period, making the game three final score 7-2.
The Rhinos will continue to skate against Oklahoma teams, this time, with Tulsa when they take on the Oilers on February 24-26 at home.
-Yazmen McCaskill
