Post Game Review vs Panthers; 3 Key Takeaways

League Record So Far; 34 – 11 – 3, 71pts, 2nd Place

Devils survived an incredibly unpredictable game to claim the extra point and secure a shootout win vs a determined Panthers road team desperate to keep their playoffs hopes alive.

Panthers clawed their way back multiple times in a back and forth tilt that would perplex some neutrals, annoy some home fans and leave the travelling contingent with pride for their teams effort.

Here are some key observations from that game;

Series Tied

1. Devils made it 3 from 3 in the second half of this series to tie it at three each. Comparing to last seasons series, there were definite improvements, but many similarities, suggesting that even though despite Panthers tragic season, their own improvement was matched by the Devils.

Devils put on 5 more goals but conceded one more in comparison to last season, 25:22 on the goals overall. Despite making less saves, Devils were more clinical. Overall, shit production was less (comparative stat cards to come end of season), which suggests better goal tending and team defence from both rosters.

Of course, there was better shot efficiency, which speaks for the increased goals scored but overall the comparisons show why this series is one to watch in itself.

Ones to Watch

2. The ones to watch for that game never failed to produce. Otto Nieminen got himself a hat trick including 2 power play goals. Goal Sanford lived up to his name, putting two up with an assist, his first goals since 18th February vs Stars.

Joey Martin also added to his impressive points streak since his return from injury, also having a multi-point game with a goal and a helper. He is currently at 25 points in 22GP.

Another that got on the scoresheet was Didrik Henbrandt. In such a high scoring game, one could feel that would be inevitable, but he did manage an assist on the SHG that embarrassed the home teams exceptional power play record so far this season.

Special Teams

3. Three power play goals and a shorty were scored by Panthers. Prior to this game, Devils earned their way back to strong positions on the penalty teams. They are now second overall on the PP with 27.4% and were third on the PK.

They have now dropped to 4th overall with 79.19%. They have also consolidated their position as the leagues worst disciplined team, now hitting 13.06 PIMS/Game on average.

This was something speculated in the preview for Panthers to stay out of the box, which they did. Earning 10 power plays and sitting just 4 times.

Of course, the penalties were inflated by a decision to give Pietroniro a game misconduct for two majors, however, there could have been more leniency as he was drawn into a fight by an instigating Kelsall, which went uncalled.

That resulted in two PPG’s for the Panthers to tilt momentum. Another big call by league officials.