Blackhawks use late scoring spree to defeat Blues 4-1

ST. LOUIS -- Andy Murray's start as coach of the St. Louis Blues has been a big success. Except when he's facing the Chicago Blackhawks.

Nikolai Khabibulin made 38 saves and the Blackhawks erased a third-period deficit with a three-goal flurry in a 4-1 victory Tuesday night. Last month, they spoiled Murray's debut in St. Louis with three third-period goals in a 3-2 victory.

"Eerily similar," Murray said. "It's frustrating to lose like that."

Manny Legace hadn't allowed a goal in 127 minutes, 12 seconds and appeared headed for his second consecutive shutout before the Blackhawks scored three times on six shots in a span of 3:23 to erase a 1-0 deficit.

The way Khabibulin was playing, the lead was safe.

"He is the difference every night," said forward Martin Havlat, whose goal began the comeback. "He keeps us in the game."

Keith Tkachuk scored for the third straight game for the Blues, who had been 5-0-3 since their last loss on Dec. 13 at Colorado -- the franchise's longest run since going 9-0-1 in 2003.