The Montreal Canadiens ran their winning streak to 3 games with a 5-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Bolts entered the night just 5 points back of the Canadiens in the fight for the final few playoff spots. Mathieu Darche scored a pair of goals for the winners, while Scott Gomez, Glen Metropolit and Benoit Pouliot added singles. Gomez finished the night with 3 points, while Markov, Darche and Metropolit all had 2 points. Darche's second goal of the night early in the 3rd gave the Canadiens a 3 goal lead, but the Bolts pressured late and got within a goal with 1:03 to play. Jaroslav Halak got the call in net and made 28 saves for the win. Antero Niittymaki started for the Lightning, but was pulled half way through the 2nd, giving way to Mike Smith. The two goalies combined for 23 saves. The Canadiens power play scored a goal in two chances, while the penalty kill went 3 for 4. Some other thoughts:>The top line of Gomez, Gionta and Pouliot continued their strong play. Gomez was on fire tonight and the entire line swarmed the Bolts all night.
>Hal Gill had a rough night, highlighted by a terrible giveaway on the Bolts first goal. Jaroslav Spacek had an excellent night making several key defensive plays on the Lightning's top players.
>The "4th" line combined for 3 goals. Now not all of these goals were scored with all three of them on the ice, but anytime your muckers can contribute offensively it is a huge boost.
Another solid effort by the Habs tonight. At this time of year, a winning streak of any kind is huge. Tonight was a good, hardworking game. The Bolts pressed late, but the Canadiens were able to hold them off. The Silver Wolf Whiskey Hab of the Game tonight is a no brainer. Scott Gomez was the best player on the ice, no doubt about it. He put up points and mixed it up. Consideration also given to Darche and Spacek. Next up, another home game against the Oilers.
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