Isles Beat the Lightning in Overtime!

Well, it’s 5 points out of their last 6 for the New York Islanders.  Despite a few “bad” penalties, several missed calls by the officials on the Bolts, and some bad luck, the Isles beat the Lightning in overtime 2-1.

Being out played and out shot 16-3 in the first period, the Isles only trailed the game 1-0 on a Ryan Malone goal (I think that was his 19th career goal in some 35 or 36 games against the Islanders).  Dwayne Roloson played another solid game, and his goaltending was a major reason why his team was able to win the game in the end. The Isles just didn’t look good at all, and were on the PK 3 times in that opening period as well.

In the second, though they still had penalty problems, the boys started to play much better and even carried the play at times.  Finally, in the closing seconds of the middle frame, PA Parenteau, on a beautiful feed from John Tavares, tied the game at 1.  It was a big goal for sure, as it gave the Islanders confidence and truly put them back in the game.  I don’t know why, but I had a good feeling going into the third period.

There was no scoring in the third period, but the Islanders continued to play an aggressively solid game against a  very talented Lightning team.  The defense played extremely well, and, once more, Roloson shut the door whenever he had to make a big save.  So, the contest went into the extra stanza, and at the 3:23 mark of overtime, John Tavares put in a James Wisniewski shot to win the game for the Islanders.  JT had taken back to back high sticking penalties in the second period, so it was nice to see him come up with the GWG.  Also, Wisniewski had put several shots on goal and had had a few deflections just miss.  With Roli having given up 2 or less goals in his last dozen or so starts with little to show in the W column, again, it was great to see him earn the victory for his team.

Josh Bailey, to me, looked great in his first game since being recalled from Bridgeport.  He played with confidence and used his speed quite effectively.  He drew a penalty and was an asset on the penalty kill.  Thus, I think we will see good things from Bails throughout the rest of the season.

Yes, folks, just to add to what Gary said in his last post, from my view point, I see no reason to dwell on the “negative” as far as the New York Islanders are concerned.  Too many blogs already do a “bang up” job of that, and you see enough of it on fan forums.  I am an Islander fan, and my loyalty and heart is with the 20 guys who take the ice every night.  I feel for these guys, I respect them all, and I refuse to jump on the negative train.  I don’t necessarily agree with every decision made by management, but I believe in Charles and Garth, and my support for the Islanders will not waver.  I will find the positives, expound on the good things and remain steadfast in my support for this team.  If you want Islander “bashing” or complaining, there are plenty of other places you can go for that.

In any event, it’s on to the Rock tonight and a game against the Devils.  I won’t be able to write anything until next week, so here is hoping for another 2 points for the Isles.  Gary has already passed along our best for the Christmas season, so I will only say, God bless and take care.

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