Typical Isles 3rd Period Dooms Them As They Fall 5-3 To Ottawa

 photo courtesy of http://img.fannation.com/

Tonight, in typical Islander fashion, they gave up a third period lead and ended up falling to the Ottawa Senators by a score of 5-3.  Here are some of my notes:

-While the officials were poor to say the least, that doesn't excuse the fact that the team once again gave up a multiple goal lead in the third period.  For years we have had issues with holding third period leads.  While recently we have had glimpses of overcoming that, most notably the last game of the most recent home stand against the Capitals.  The last two games show that the issue is still present with the team.  It is very concerning that over the years management hasn't done a better job at rectifying this issue.  Some may argue that it is an issue that lies with the coach, but the coach can only do so much with what he is given.

-The Okposo, Nielsen, Bailey line played a good game.  The first two periods they were flying all over the ice & creating chances.  It was nice to see!

-Bad job by Radek on the second goal.  As a vet player you can't be making passes up the middle like that. Your taught in pee wees to not make passes like that.

-Where the heck was Tavares tonight?  He is a great player and pretty much the team in a sense, but he was really quiet tonight.

-Hopefully Grabner or Joensuu will be able to go on Thursday to get Boulton out of the lineup.  Especially when he doesn't fight, Boulton brings nothing useful to games.

-How Aucoins goal was waived off in the third period is beyond me.  The rule is that a distinct kicking motion is needed to disallow goals, and it was clear to anyone with eyes that there was no kicking motion on the play.

 

Well, coming into this game after our wins in Florida, emotion amongst fans was running high as we looked to continue our playoff push.  The wrath of the third period lead and fear of excelling once again got to the team though.  Playoff teams win games when they go into the third period up two goals.  With tough games coming up Thursday and Friday it is a real possibility that the team will only get 2/8 points on this home stand which for a team in a playoff position is not acceptable.  

Next Game: Thursday @ Home VS Montreal