The second period, that which used to be the Bane of the Fan's existence has become a thing of pure enjoyment. The Flames were complete and whole. They played very well positionally and were so very good in their own end. The one time they felt apart just a tiny bit, the Ottawa players decided to back off and slip the puck out of the zone for the Flames. Thanks for that. Good high energy, strong hard skating, and continued pressure in all areas of the ice. Those were the hallmarks of a successful second period.
The penalty kill was much improved in the second frame. They pressured the puck, denied the zone as much as possible and almost created offensive pressure yet again. THIS is the penalty kill I was asking for back int he first period. Good job by Glencross and Conroy to create that almost offense. Also thanks to Heater for taking the penalty to cut the pk to only a minute and two seconds. The four on four and shortened power play for the Flames were nothing of note. No real pressure by any one and just no urgency either. The second power play chance for the Flames started slowly and built to an Iginla and Lundmark opportunity that was thwarted.
I love that our pluggers are always stepping up when needed these days. What a perfect play by Conroy to feed Moss that puck. And good on Moss for burying it. And what about Vandermeer. That guy is made of solid granite. Takes a puck off the face, and doesn't even bruise. I mean wow. Vander Gulik just continues to impress. He's so very good at both ends of the ice, and is very aware and smart defensively. He back checks like he's been in the league for a couple years now. And Sarich you are awesome. I mean it. That hip check was absolutely genius!! Not only did it eliminate the player, but it stopped any chance of the short handed attempt. Sigh. I hate having to nag at any one player, and I like Dion. I really do. But if he doesn't stop with all the bad giveaways I think my head might just explode.
Yeah so ti is not just me who thinks Van der Gulik is a great call up. Tons of energy and real smart in his own end. Good on him. That last PP was totally pathetic until the last minute.
