The Sens dominated the Islanders this afternoon in a game that was never close. Other than early in the third period the Islanders were completely lifeless and Craig Anderson was up to the task on the few opportunities he faced. Erik Karlsson lead the way with two goals and four points. Here’s the box score.
First Period
Sens score two quick goals, the first from Karlsson from a near impossible angle and the next from Spezza on a delayed penalty. The goals chased Kevin Poulin, but the change didn’t alter the momentum of the game. Michalek made a great defensive play on a Grabner short-handed breakaway, preventing him from getting a shot, and that play lead to the third Ottawa goal of the period (also by Karlsson) who Alfredsson found alone in the slot and he beat Montoya 5-hole.
Second Period
A much slower period, particularly after Phillips scored on the powerplay. Other than a fight between Matt Martin and Zack Smith the teams were going through the motions.
Third Period
The Sens were asleep to start the period, getting outshot 9-0, but a goal from Lee flipped the momentum back to Ottawa and Spezza added to the avalanche of goals on the powerplay. The Sens were able to hang on to the shutout (the easiest of Anderson‘s career in Ottawa) to close things out.
A look at the goals:
1. Karlsson (unassisted)
Stole the puck at the blueline and then beat Poulin from behind the goal line
2. Spezza (Foligno, Neil)
On a delayed penalty Spezza beat Poulin from inside the dot
3. Karlsson (Alfredsson, Gonchar)
Just after their powerplay expired, Alfredsson found Karlsson alone in the slot and he beats Montoya 5-hole
4. Phillips (Turris, Gonchar) (pp)
Fires through a screen and beats Montoya short side
5. Lee (Karlsson, Condra)
Beats Montoya low, far side with a snap shot
6. Spezza (Karlsson, Kuba) (pp)
Fires a laser top-shelf short side
Top-performers:
Erik Karlsson – dominated in every aspect of the game
Jason Spezza – scored a pair of goals and worked hard in his own end
None of the players struggled this afternoon, with a mix of strong to average play.
eyeonthesens 