The Game
I’m not sure the last time the Everett Silvertips went up 2-0 in a postseason series (though I think broadcaster Mike Benton may have mentioned on his pregame show).
I do know it wasn’t last year as the Tips split their first two games against both Spokane and Seattle.
As for the importance of Saturday’s win? Well, the Silvertips players and coaches will tell you they know they’re far from finished. Portland hasn’t always been the easiest place for Everett to play over the years, and the Tips are certain to meet a hostile full house when the series resumes Tuesday.
Mario Petit was solid in net yet again as he blocked all but one power play shot from Rihards Bukarts. You might remember Bukarts from the hat trick (including two power play goals) he produced in Portland’s 7-5 comeback win at Everett on Dec. 9.
Petit has now allowed one goal in two playoff games for a goals-against average of 0.50 and has 53 saves on 54 shots for a .981 percentage.
The Tips also got a huge goal from Brandon Ralph just two minutes after Portland took the lead. Ralph scored only five goals and three assists in 55 regular-season games, but already has two points in two postseason games.
Matt Fonteyne tallied the game-winner and Remi Laurencelle added some second-period insurance. Those were the first points of the postseason for both players after Portland held them off the score sheet Friday night.
Everett has also done an excellent job of creating shots while keeping Portland’s chances to a minimum. That’s been key as the defense looks to take some pressure off of Petit.
As for Carter Hart? We’ll see if there is any progress Monday, but Constantine could opt to stick with Petit’s hot hand.
The Turning Point
Ralph erased a 1-0 deficit when he scored off his own rebound at 4:22 in the opening period. It was the first of three unanswered goals for the Tips.
Three Stars
1. Everett F Brandon Ralph: Ralph scored the game-tying goal and has goals in both of Everett’s postseason games.
2. Everett F Remi Laurencelle: The overager added an insurance goal just after a shift change midway through the second period.
3. Everett D Lucas Skrumeda: The blueliner anchored Everett’s back end and was plus-one on the night.
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