The Queen's Gaels held the highest-scoring offense in the OUA to just one goal for nearly 58 minutes, but a late surge from the Concordia Stingers saw the hosts take a 2-1 victory in Game 1 of the Queen's Cup semifinal series at Ed Meagher Arena.

Goaltender Christian Purboo (Arts & Science) was stellar for Queen's, stopping 35 of 37 shots, including a highlight-reel glove save in the dying moments of the third period. However, a pair of late Concordia goals proved to be the difference as the Stingers claimed the series opener.

Nolan Hutcheson (Health Studies) opened the scoring for the Gaels in the first period, finishing off a setup from Liam Tanner (Arts & Science) to give Queen's an early lead. Purboo and the Gaels' defensive structure held strong throughout the opening two frames, limiting a Concordia offense that averaged 4.41 goals per game during the regular season to minimal high-danger chances.

The Stingers upped the physicality in the second period, but Queen's continued to grind along the boards, with Hutcheson delivering a punishing hit late in the frame. Despite Concordia's increased pressure, Purboo remained composed, turning away several point-blank opportunities to preserve the 1-0 lead heading into the third.

With time winding down, Concordia finally broke through with a wraparound goal to tie the game. Moments later, an unfortunate misplay behind the net nearly handed the Stingers the lead, but Purboo lunged across the crease to make a desperation glove stop. The game appeared destined for overtime, but a late rebound goal with under a minute to play sealed the win for Concordia.

Queen's will now look to even the series on home ice when Game 2 gets underway Friday at the Memorial Centre at 7 p.m. A victory would force a decisive Game 3 back in Montreal, while a loss would end the Gaels' season.

Come support you Gaels this Friday at the Memorial Centre, puck drop at 7pm. Grab tickets from the Queens Ticket Site above. Stream the game on OUA.tv