Tips blow it in third — again

Published 10:10 pm Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Well, the Tips lost another one tonight, falling 4-3 at Kamloops in a shootout.

And once again Everett blew a two-goal third-period lead, just like they did in their last game against Kamloops at home on Jan. 18 (the Tips lost that one in a shootout, too).

I don’t usually post after away games, but I thought this needed to be mentioned. This Everett team is about the worst third-period team I’ve ever seen. I don’t know how many multiple-goal third-period leads the Tips have lost this season, but it’s been way more than acceptable (I may have to do some research to find out the exact number tomorrow). It wasn’t that long ago that a lead going into the third period meant certain victory for Everett. Those days are long gone.

Everett has now been outscored 72-49 in the third period this season — plus 6-0 in overtime. I really couldn’t tell you why it’s been such a problem, whether it’s youth or fatigue or lack of mental strength or whatever. But whatever it is it’s got to stop if the Tips want to accomplish anything this season, and maybe beyond.