(RAPID CITY, S.D.)—The Rapid City Rush (7-2-0) scored three times in a span of 3:33, then held off a third-period rally to defeat the Knight Monsters (4-7-1), 4-3, at The Monument Ice Arena on Friday.
After a 35-minute stalemate in the series opener, the Rush wasted little time, with Alec Butcher feeding Hunter Donohoe for a one-timer to kick off the scoring just 2:29 into the first period. Tahoe’s Bobby Russell tied the game later in the first.
Rapid City’s offense broke the deadlock late in the second period and the floodgates opened. Ryan Wagner sniped home the go-ahead goal, Quinn Olson ripped a bar-down shot off a faceoff play, then Alex Young’s whirling backhander from the low slot widened the lead to 4-1.
Young’s goal proved to be the decisive tally. Tahoe came out strong in the third period, scoring twice in the opening five minutes and cutting the score to 4-3. Rapid City’s defense—and goaltender Brett Mirwald—settled things down and denied every shot sent their way until the end, and the Rush held on for their fourth straight victory.
Wagner and Young each recorded their team-leading fifth goals of the season. Donohoe picked up a goal and an assist, the only player on either side with multiple points.
The Rush outshot Tahoe, 38-27. Mirwald stopped 24 out of 27 and earned the win, lifting him to 2-0 with Rapid City. Pavel Moysevich made 34 saves on 38 shots in the loss.
Rapid City improves their record to 7-2, remains in first place in the Mountain Division and continues their best start since 2013. They will go for the sweep tomorrow night on Veterans Appreciation Night. Governor Larry Rhoden will be in attendance and drop the ceremonial first puck.
Next game: Saturday, November 14 vs. Tahoe. 7:05 p.m. MST puck drop from The Monument Arena.
2026-27 Rapid City Rush season tickets, mini plans, and group experiences are on sale now! You can score the best deals on tickets and take advantage of exclusive perks, including season ticket holder-only events and discounts at the team store. Call the Rush office at 605-716-7825 or visit www.rapidcityrush.com to learn more and secure your seats today.
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