NHL: Carolina 3, Phoenix 1

GLENDALE, Ariz., Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Jeff Skinner notched a go-ahead goal off a face-off early in the third period Saturday and the Carolina Hurricanes went on to post a 3-1 win over Phoenix.

The score was tied 1-1 3 minutes into the final period when Eric Staal won a face-off to the left of the Coyotes' net. Skinner snared the puck in the slot and shot it in one motion, beating goalie Mike Smith.

Staal later added an empty-netter and Nathan Gerbe also scored as the Hurricanes snapped a three-game skid.

Justin Peters earned the decision with 37 saves.

Paul Bissonnette scored and Smith yielded two goals on 32 shots for Phoenix.