The Colorado Eagles had much to gain in the matchup with the Bakersfield Condors (EDM). But the team faced several shortcomings, and they were all brutally highlighted in their 6–1 loss.
After being traded to Anaheim earlier this week, the team missed key player Ben Meyers on the ice. The Eagles are also on the tail end of a six-game road trip, all while fighting to keep their second place standing.
A win would mean everything, especially at this point in the season. A victory situates the team comfortably at 71 points and trailing the Coachella Valley Firebirds (SEA) by seven points. Third place team Tucson Roadrunners (ARI) trail the Eagles by a mere four points.
The good
It goes without saying the Eagles struggled in their loss. After only trailing by one after the first frame, a second goal only 18 seconds into the period wasn’t encouraging.
On the board thanks to Peter Holland! pic.twitter.com/AMcsSKXQKp
— Colorado Eagles (@ColoradoEagles) March 10, 2024
However, Colorado never slowed down and became complacent, a very positive trait with playoffs just around the corner. The team appeared to be on the cusp of a goal for the first 40 minutes, but simply could not get through Condor Olivier Rodrigue to light the lamp.
Though it took 50 minutes of play, Riley Tufte and Peter Holland prevented a shutout. A dish from Tufte off the bobble of the Condors allowed Holland the room to find the back of the net and cut the margin down to five.
The bad
Unfortunately for Colorado, there was more to correct than to celebrate. The matchups between the Eagles and Condors have never been easy, frequently splitting the series.
Goaltender Ivan Prosvetov has been an enormous asset to the Eagles, sporting an 8–2–0–2 record with a save percentage of 0.935. Despite such a positive impact on the team, he allowed three goals on 16 shots, two of which were in the second period.
Wright on the money 💰@therealgasc | #Condorstown pic.twitter.com/8tLmCJdT5M
— Bakersfield Condors (@Condors) March 10, 2024
The Eagles excelled in drawing penalties but couldn’t convert on any of them. Heading into post season, power plays can make or break a game. Colorado was rewarded with a four-minute advantage in the second frame, but Tanner Kero‘s double minor cut it short.
His time in the box was a direct cause of the third goal against the Eagles.
Getting it going early! #Condorstown pic.twitter.com/NMLo38rX8i
— Bakersfield Condors (@Condors) March 10, 2024
The Condors opened up the third period with another goal, increasing the margin to four. Lighting the lamp for the fourth time was the beginning of the end for the team, and the spiral was a collective effort.
Pedey doubling down. #Condorstown pic.twitter.com/ZhrABfc2Uu
— Bakersfield Condors (@Condors) March 10, 2024
In a minute and a half, Bakersfield netted goals five and six, all while keeping the Eagles off of the scoreboard.
What now?
The team still has 16 games to solidify their standing in the rankings. After working out some of their issues and readjusting to the absence of Meyers, the future is bright for the team.
The Eagles will have time to reset and return to their home arena to face the Calgary Wranglers (CGY) on Friday, March 15 at 7:05 p.m.