More of Your Opinions

The following article is submitted by Matt in Toronto.

In a game where Leaf fans everywhere were dreading an unimaginable home game sweep by the Sens, all eyes turned to the return of Darcy Tucker and Ken Klee, to spark a renewed fire behind the Leafs. In game two, the Leafs showed up to play, and used Tucker’s return to spark better physical and defensive play. As well much credit must go to the gritty heart-filled play of Gary Roberts who last night found his scoring touch, notching two goals.

The Leafs however cannot consider this a huge step forward from last game; for much deception of improvement is in fact the result of the best playoff performance we have had by Eddie Belfour since joining the team. Eddie stopped all shots for his first shutout as a Leaf as well.

Like every hockey nut knows, to win you need your best players to be your best players; and last night this was the case for the leafs. Aside for Alexander Mogilny, who has pretty much been a shadow this series thus far; Gary Roberts, Mats Sundin, and Belfour found there A-games, and brought them last night.

The Leafs came away with an impressive victory blanking the Sens, yet still have room to improve before heading to Ottawa. The Leafs penalty kill was much better last night but most of this is due to the play of Belfour. If the Leafs are going to hope to win this series because of anything more then Belfour’s play, the Leafs will have to step up there penalty kill and try and control the speed the Senators have shown.

Heading back to Ottawa the Leafs must now look to take back home ice advantage, and look to play the firey physical play they showed last night. If the Leafs continue to get the best of Belfour, and continue to improve, Ottawa will be pulling out the clubs and heading down the fairways in no time.