TUCSON, Ariz — The Colorado Eagles were so close to the Pacific Division title they could taste it. After falling short in a 4–2 loss against the Ontario Reign (LAK) on Wednesday, this was a second chance to write history.

A loss from the Abbotsford Canucks (VAN) would mean Colorado would clinch the title regardless of how the game turned out. But, Abbotsford secured their own victory over the Coachella Valley Firebirds (SEA), leaving it up to Colorado entirely. After a hard fought battle, the Eagles took home the Pacific Division title for the first time since joining the AHL.

Takeaways

The sleepy presence on the ice against the Reign was nonexistent, and the difference was night and day. There was a hunger and eagerness to succeed. After all, the roster was a mere one point away from capturing the Pacific Division title for the first time in the franchise’s AHL history.

Jayson Megna opened up the scoring only 14 seconds into the first period, and it didn’t slow there. Despite the Tucson Roadrunners (UTA) rallying back on a questionable power play only a short while later, it didn’t seem to rattle the team nearly as much.

An offensive storm was exactly the energy needed so close to playoffs, and the second period delivered just that. Colorado skated circles around Tucson, hitting the post several times before finally lighting the lamp.

By the end of the second period, both Wyatt Aamodt and Calle Rosén had also netted goals, bringing the team up to a healthy lead and ultimately contributing to the 3–2 victory.

Despite many offensive successes, Colorado has had one huge struggle: the power play. In their last eight games, they have only netted one goal in all of their chances and went zero-for-three in their bout.

They find it hard to stay disciplined when facing physical teams like Tucson and avoid the penalty box. While this contest was minor compared to most of their meetings, the Eagles still notched five penalties, which led to both of the goals put up by the Roadrunners.

Goaltender Trent Miner had the net on lockdown. The teams were largely shot-for-shot, yet allowed no more goals. He’s been solid in the crease throughout the season, posting a .918 SV% and 2.13 GAA.

Upcoming

The Colorado Eagles will play their final game of the regular season on Saturday, April 19 at 8:00 p.m. with the chance to claim the Western Conference. FloHockey.com will stream the game.