Marlies top Moose in OT

WINNIPEG, MAN – As predicted game one was a very tight affair. Despite a number of scoring chances it wasn’t until the second period that things really got going in the first of a possible seven game series. With scoring chances limited to just 11-7 in favor of the Marlies it was a surprise goal from Toronto’s Kyle Rogers. The goal was Rogers’ his first since January and it broke the scoreless deadlock. A deceptive cross-ice pass from defenseman Todd Perry sent Rogers across the blueline heading away from net before a quick wrist shot outsmarted a rooted Cory Schneider in net. The lead didn’t last long as the Moose hit back within 35 seconds with a cheeky wrap-around goal from Guillaume Desbiens as Daryl Boyce sat out for slashing. A continuous barrage of shots rained on Toronto net minder Justin Pogge but once again the Marlies took control. While crashing the net Marlies forward Alex Foster managed to lift the puck over a diving Schneider to give the Marlies a 2-1 lead with less than eight minutes remaining in the period. Discipline seemed to be a problem all game for the Marlies and it once again cost them a goal. Despite turning away a number of shots it was a spilled puck from Pogge that gave the Moose the equalizer they were looking for. With Pogge unable to hold a powerful slap shot Moose forward Ray Sawada pounced on the rebound to tie the game. Even though they heavily out-shot the Marlies in the third the Moose were unable to break the game open. As the two teams began overtime it was a veteran that eventually took the glory showing a wise head can pay dividends this time of year. Bates Battaglia scored a timely game-winner for the Marlies just over five minutes into overtime ending the game 3-2. It was a repeat performance for Battaglia as during last season’s playoff run the veteran forward was decisive for the Marlies as he scored three game-winning goals. The Marlies have now stretched their winning streak over the Moose to seven consecutive games. The series continues Friday with game two as the Moose look to tie the series. Contact the author at Kevin.oconnor@prohockeynews.com
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