The Texas Stars scored two first period goals and added two empty netters to defeat Tucson, 4-1, in game two of the Pacific Division Finals.
Forward Lane Pederson scored Tucson's only goal midway through the third period.
"We dug ourselves a hole early and let it get out of hand," said Pederson. "We have to be ready to go from the beginning. We'll watch the video and be ready to go on Monday."
Head coach Mike Van Ryn chose not to comment on the officiating, which the Tucson crowd felt left much to be desired. The Roadrunners successfully killed four Texas second period power plays.
"The positive was we got through those kills," said Van Ryn. "Normally teams die. We played well after the kills were over."
Tucson also had several shots on goal that were stopped due to the Texas goalie Mike McKenna dislodging the net causing a stoppage of play. McKenna was not called for a delay of game even though it happened on both sides of the ice.
McKenna made 32 stops on 33 shots in goal for the Stars on Friday night.
The series now shifts to Austin, Texas. Despite the split, Tucson can feel good about the fact that they were the best road team in the AHL this season. The team will depart for Texas on Saturday.
Game three is Monday night in Texas.
