PUEBLO, CO — The Grand Junction River Hawks battled their way to a weekend split against the Pueblo Peppers, earning a thrilling 3–2 comeback victory Friday before dropping Saturday’s rematch 2–0.
The results gave Grand Junction three wins in five meetings against its in-state rival this season, as the River Hawks continued to build their identity through defensive commitment, special teams, and resilience on the road.
FRIDAY: MARTIN LEADS THIRD-PERIOD COMEBACK
Grand Junction 3 | Pueblo 2
Friday night featured a dramatic third-period comeback led by Lincoln Martin, whose two goals in a five-minute span turned a one-goal deficit into a River Hawks victory.
Following a scoreless opening period, Pueblo’s Jake McIntosh broke the deadlock early in the second. Grand Junction responded just minutes later when Reid Taylor scored off the rush, tying the game at one.
Pueblo regained the advantage on a power-play goal from Jake Sparetz, sending Grand Junction into the third period trailing 2–1.
The final frame belonged to Martin.
Just five minutes into the third, Martin found the back of the net to even the score at two. Five minutes later, he struck again, completing the comeback and giving Grand Junction its first lead of the night.
Despite being outshot 33–23, the River Hawks protected their advantage through the closing minutes, including a late Pueblo push with the extra attacker.
The victory marked another important road result for Grand Junction and showcased the team’s ability to respond when facing adversity.
SATURDAY: PUEBLO RESPONDS WITH SHUTOUT
Pueblo 2 | Grand Junction 0
Saturday’s rematch was another physical, tightly contested divisional battle.
Following a scoreless first period, Pueblo’s Michael Mathison opened the scoring in the second. The Peppers controlled much of the middle frame, generating a 22–5 advantage in shots.
Grand Junction continued to battle defensively, with goaltender Preston Lewis helping keep the River Hawks within striking distance.
The River Hawks pushed for the equalizer in the third period, but Pueblo’s defensive structure and goaltender Max Cogler kept Grand Junction off the scoreboard.
With just over two minutes remaining, the River Hawks pulled Lewis for an extra attacker. Pueblo’s Nolan Warner capitalized with an empty-net goal to secure the 2–0 victory.
Despite the loss, Grand Junction’s penalty kill remained perfect on the evening, successfully defending all four Pueblo power plays.
SPECIAL TEAMS CONTINUE TO BE A STRENGTH
Through 12 games, Grand Junction’s penalty kill has emerged as one of the team’s most reliable strengths, operating at 90.9% on the season.
The River Hawks killed 10 of 11 Pueblo power plays over the weekend, reinforcing their defensive identity.
With a 3–2 season-series advantage over Pueblo, Grand Junction will look to carry the lessons from this road trip into its upcoming matchups.
UP NEXT: NEW MEXICO ICE WOLVES
The River Hawks return to the road October 23–24 for a two-game matchup against the New Mexico Ice Wolves.
Both games are scheduled for 6:30 PM Mountain Time.
BE A YOUNG PRO. SET THE STANDARD. DEFENSE CREATES OFFENSE.