Calgary 1 – Anaheim 0 (OT)
YOu had the sense this game was going to go down much like previous games against sub .500 teams. Calgary just can’t beat basement dweller hockey clubs (of which they are one). Lately the problem has been sustained offence, only 18 shots in this game and 10 going into the third period.
But Calgary weathered the storm, Kiprusoff came up big, and the Flames snuck two points in what was for the most part a boring and tentative game. The fireworks actually came off-ice in a blockbuster trade.
This game needed overtime and Blair Jones, newly acquired from Tampa due to the rash of injuries at center, scored the overtime winner. The pay itself developed because Cory Sarich threw himself in the bench upside down and Mark Giordano jumped onto the ice to join the play to make it a 3 on 2.
Giordano returned to the line up after missing over twenty games due to a groin tear. He didn’t look out of place; we can expect more healthy bodies to slowly return to the fold very soon.
This game seemed to develop in slow motion throughout. Calgary for their part will need to figure out how to create some more offence. Although they had some glorious chances, you can tell their injuries are affecting their offensive game.
Notes. Darryl Sutter to return to Calgary Saturday when the Flames host LA.
Obviously, shots on goals arent an issue for the Calgary Flames because there have been times when they have outshot their opponents without connecting to net; yet, in games like last night, they successfully accomplished their goals despite being outshot. Consequently, the main focus for the Flames is to maintain their game plan, strive to score on man advantages and prevent giving up short handeded goals – these are factors that can take away their momentum….
Having said this, cheers to Blair Jones for scoring the overtime winner. Who’s next guys?
Yes, I forgot about Jones and his first goal as a Flame.