The Stars Fall—Page 2

1 | Page 2

Not only did the Oilers tie the game, an overtime goal by Kelly Buchberger gave the Oil the win.

"We just began to start feeding off each other and feeding off the fans," recalled Grier. "It was a very emotional scene when we scored with just minutes left to tie the game. That emotion gave us confidence."

Even though the Stars took Game 4, the Oilers’ confidence did not wane, and once again, Edmonton stunned the fans at Reunion Arena. A 0-0 stalemate marathon was broken 22 seconds into the second overtime when winger Ryan Smyth’s shot and scored the winner from Moog's side. The win put the Oilers just one game from taking the series, but the Stars spoiled the Edmonton party with a 3-2 victory, thanks to a clutch goal from Modano.

Game 7 at Reunion Arena was a wild, see-saw affair that saw both teams trade chances. When the dust cleared after three periods of play, the score was tied 3-3. The series hinged on an overtime goal.

When a rebound found its way to Dallas sniper Joe Nieuwendyk, all looked lost for the Oilers. Dallas fans roared as if a goal had already gone in when it came to Nieuwendyk in the slot. Joseph was out of position, and a yawning cage awaited the game-winning goal. Joseph showed catlike reflexes as he leapt across the crease, snatching a certain goal out of mid-air. The save gave the Oilers yet another confidence boost, and a few shifts later speedy forward Todd Marchant took a pass from Weight, and crossed the Dallas blue line with speed. One on one with Moog, Marchant went upstairs, depositing the puck over Moog’s shoulder. The unthinkable had occurred; the Oilers had just slain the Dallas Goliath.

[back] [top]