A short-benched Dundee Stars squad could not overcome the Belfast Giants, losing 4–1 on home ice. The undermanned lineup battled hard but struggled to find their rhythm against a strong, disciplined Giants side.
Despite determined play from Dundee, Belfast took control early. The Giants capitalized on defensive gaps to open the scoring, maintaining steady pressure through the first 20 minutes. The Stars generated a few promising chances but were unable to convert.
Heading into the middle frame, Dundee briefly lifted their tempo, creating pressure in the Giants’ zone. However, Belfast’s structure held firm, and timely goaltending kept the Stars off the board. The visitors extended their lead midway through, punishing a defensive lapse.
Dundee finally broke through in the third, finding the net after a well-executed passing play. Yet momentum swung back to Belfast almost immediately, as they restored a two-goal advantage and later sealed the win with an empty-net strike.
Head coach and players reflected on the loss, emphasizing the need for tighter defense and more collective support.
"The forwards have got to help out more in our own end," said one team representative. "We’re battling hard, but small mistakes are costing us."
The Giants’ combination of depth, speed, and composure proved too much for the short-handed Stars, who will aim to bounce back in their next fixture.
Final Score: Dundee Stars 1 – Belfast Giants 4
Author’s summary: Dundee Stars fought hard but couldn’t match Belfast’s efficiency, falling 4–1 in a game defined by defensive errors and short bench challenges.