Last Saturday there was only one game to be watching in Canada (in fact in the whole of the NHL), in Ottawa between the two top teams in the NHL, the hometown Senators and Detroit Red Wings. And with some fantastic twist of fate, I was lucky enough to be there thanks to Mr Brian, Sir (Amanda's Dad) and his friend Yvon. It was part of a great weekend up in the Capital, and a real highlight of my time here in Canada, along with so many others!
(Mr. Brian & Yvon enjoying the atmosphere at Scotiabank Place)
The first two periods weren't that interesting sadly as Detroit really didn't show up at all, but that allowed the Sens to take a two-nil lead making the home crowd (including myself pretty happy). But they couldn't make the most of all their possession and some excellent chances, including hitting the post three times and missing a wide open net as Hasek in Detroit's goal went walkabouts.
But the third period was electric, and showed how good these two teams are, as Detroit came out to play. As so often happens, those missed chances came back to hurt Ottawa, first the Red Wings were awarded a very debatable powerplay which they took advantage of after looking very ineffective on their first five opportunities. And then they equalised with 8 minutes to go! Would Ottawa do something so typical of the Toronto Maple Leafs and snatch defeat from the jaws of victory?
The Sens however, came roaring back themselves, and captain Daniel Alfredsson capped of a man of the match performance with a fine goal from right below our position in the stands. The crowd erupted (along with me), and a few minutes later were happily leaving the arena and heading for a celebration in the nation's capital.
The only time these teams can meet again would be in the Stanley Cup finals. And what a series that would be if they did!
(Some of the atmosphere from Scotiabank Place.)
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