Sunday, November 23, 2003

Leafs Break Canucks Home Unbeaten Streak

The Maple Leafs long six game western North American road trip finally came to end in Vancouver last night with the Leafs pulling off a 5-3 victory against the one of the best teams in the NHL at home. This trip was made even longer by the fact that the Leafs had not won a game on this road trip until the final game last night. For some reason, every game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Vancouver Canucks especially in Vancouver’s GM Place seems to be extremely entertaining, exciting and high scoring. On December 31st, 2003, the Leafs won a wild game 5-4 coming back from a 2-0 deficit early in the game. Last night’s game was no different as the Leafs quickly jumped out to 2-0 lead. The Canucks game back to tie the game two all before the Leafs got two more goals in the third period to put the game away.

There were many positives to take away from last night’s game apart from the fact the Maple Leafs picked up a much needed two points. Gary Roberts played one of his best games in a Maple Leaf uniform conjuring up memories of his play during the playoffs two seasons ago. Roberts had two goals and a plethora of chances that could easily have seen him record a hat trick. Along with his goal scoring, he went to the net with enthusiasm on most plays causing problems infront of Vancouver netminder, Dan Cloutier. He was a physical presence throughout the game as well, dealing out a few thunderous checks.

Harold Druken played his first game for the Maple Leafs last night on a line with Owen Nolan and Matt Stajan. Apart from Gary Roberts’ line, Stajan between Nolan and Druken was probably one of the Leafs’ best lines last night. Nolan scored a goal and both of his line mates recorded assists on the play. They also generated a lot of chances with a high energy style of play. Coach Pat Quinn gave Matt Stajan considerably more ice time with regulars like Alex Mogilny, Joe Nieuwendyk and Wade Belak being out of the lineup. Stajan played well with the increased ice time he received proving he can play effectively in a role more important from his current spot as the fourth line centre.

The Leafs will take on the Vancouver Canucks again on Monday at Air Canada Centre. The Canucks will definitely want to salvage at least one game out of this mini two game series which means they will probably play with a considerable amount of intensity and energy.

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