Hitmen Grab 2-0 Series Lead

The Hurricanes find themselves behind the 8 ball, down 2-0 in their second round series with the Hitmen.

The Canes' played a good game yesterday at the Saddledome, but just came up short in a 2-1 loss. Penalties really killed the Canes' in game 2. Lethbridge has to be and must be more disciplined from here on in. Calgary went 2 for 8 on the power play Sunday while the Canes' were 0 for 4. People who listen to our broadcast on a regular basis know I rarely ever complain about officiating, but I did yesterday. I wasn't necessarily upset about the penalties that the Hurricanes were assessed. It was the non-calls against the Hitmen. Especially the high-stick Mitch Versteeg took with less than 5 minutes to go. The Hitmen player tried hitting the puck out of mid-air, missed and hit Versteeg in the face. I know he didn't mean to do that, but players still must have control and be responsible for the sticks. Hurricanes coaches Michael Dyck and Matt Kabayama were both visibilty upset at the officials after the game. I know I sound like I'm whining here, but all I want to see is some consistency. Again though, the Hurricanes must stay out of the box if they want to come back in this series, plain and simple.

That aside, Lethbridge played well Sunday. They were much more determined and maybe deserved a better fate. Juha Metsola was great in goal, making numerous big stops. He gave the Hurricanes a chance.

Game 3 is Tuesday and game 4 Wednesday both in Lethbridge at the Enmax Centre at 7pm.

I'll set up game 3 tomorrow.
Talk to you then,
Pat