The Calgary Flames picked up a much needed win in game three of their 6 game homestand. Their third win of the season was a result of a solid first period and timely goaltending late in the third. Coming into the game the Avs were unbeaten on the road, whereas Calgary were looking for ways to turn good effort into wins.
Colorado opened the scoring despite Calgary’s relentless pursuit. You had the feeling they were ‘doing the right things’ but were going to wind up on the short end of the stick yet again. Calgary threw over 20 shots on net during the first period alone and were finally rewarded when Roman Horak scored his first NHL goal on his butt. That seemed to breathe life in the Flames’ attack.
The twenty year-old Flames rookie, who made the surprise jump from junior to NHL, factored in the second goal assisting on Lee Stepniak’s first goal as a Flame.
Rene Bourque rounded out the scoring with a PP marker and an empty netter for his team leading 5th goal. Lot sof calls to see him traded, but his effort tonight was reminiscent of better times and why the Flames gave him a contract extension.
Interestingly, the Flames chose to dress 7 D-man rather than play Matt Stajan. Trade in the works? I can’t remember the last time a team chose to play 3 centerman and 7 Dmen. With Curtis Glencross a late game scratch with a lower body injury, sitting Stajan put the FLames down two regulars. Nik Hagman got back into the lineup and factored into the Flames’ 2nd goal. But Stajan, he must feel pretty miffed with the spurning.
Next up St Louis Friday.
It was unfortunate that the game was not televised last night; but the outcome was indeed refreshing. Great going guys and here are my comments:
1. Belated Happy Birthday to Mikka – Ironically he makes 34 saves on this 35th.
2. Congratulations are in place for Roman Horak and Lee Stempniak for their first goal
3. Bourque is the best for scoring a power play and an empty netter
4. Babchuk, Bouwmeester, Iginla and Tanguay tackled the puck beautifully
With as many as 34 shots and 16 attempted shots, the Calgary Flames are certainly getting the desired consequences and bravo for their collaborative efforts. More importantly, notwithstanding their potential to comeback after trailing behind, the Flames’ penalty killing will also need much attention because they will need to excel on every account should they desire to become Stanley Cup contenders.