Perhaps the most satisfying part of the playoffs is witnessing a stellar hockey game, and knowing that it isn’t long before the teams run it back. Less than 24 hours after the conclusion of a spectacular Game 1, Coquitlam and Victoria renew their conflict at the Q.
Game 2 is a pivotal one with plenty at stake for both teams. At this rate, the Grizzlies are content to keep the current trend of home teams winning. That would put us back at the Q for a winner-take-all Game 7. Something has got to give, as both of these teams are constantly on the knifes edge of tipping a game in their favour. If that Chase Pirtle tying goal in the third doesn’t go, the complexion of last night changes. If Ness doesn’t catch an edge in the second period, the outcome could vary greatly. If a myriad of bounces shift one inch here or there, Game 1 looks entirely different. That’s playoff hockey, and what makes this series so hard to predict because these teams are so evenly matched.
Last night the Grizzlies earned the upperhand in the physicality department with their exceptional forechecking and proper utilization of their size. The Express struggled on zone entry both 5-on-5 and especially on the powerplay. Speed will be Coquitlam’s friend tonight and they need to try and catch the Victoria defence flatfooted so they can’t get set and use their long reach. Special teams are also a must-improve for Game 2 as the Express went practically 0-4 on the powerplay in Game 1. Nolan Flynn did get his first of last night on the powerplay but it was a rush play that wouldn’t have looked that much different with even numbers on the ice. The sense of urgency from Coquitlam when gaining the zone and the puck movement thereafter both weren’t quite as fervent as recent memory has seen.
Despite the criticisms, the Express did have offensive flow and creativity last night. They shared the puck well and there was plenty of unselfish play leading to quality chances. That is the sign of a team that is dialed-in and ready to leave it all out on the ice for one another.
When it came to the backend in Game 1, both teams looked steady and ready. The Grizzlies used their aforementioned length and size to shut down Coquitlam on the rush and in key moments within the attacking zone. Coquitlam’s blueliners countered with speed and quality positioning to constantly be in the grill of their opponent.
Game 1 also featured a combined 106 shots between the teams. Auyeung-Ashton and Ness were in their element and stepped up to the plate time and time again to stymie key opportunities. When you have two goaltenders ready to stop anything and everything, making life difficult for them is a huge key to success tonight.
Puck drop is scheduled for 6PM PST at the “Q”. Come on over and support the boys in person or tune in for the FloHockey Broadcast with the Pregame show getting underway around 5:45.
FLOHOCKEY BROADCAST (Select “Away” Stream)
– Ian Wilson
