Wings Dominate Game 1

The Detroit Red Wings started their Championship defense with bang Thursday Night. Just as I had predicted, the Blue Jackets were just outmatched, and out played.

The Game started as most have in this years playoffs, heavy on the penalties. Referees seem to be calling everything this year and it is watering down the game.The Red Wings were on the penalty kill for 6 minutes in the first period alone, thanks to an amazing penalty kill largely due to Niklas Lidstrom and the immortal Chris Osgood. Ozzie had a so-so season and was a question mark going into the series, but after only 1 game, I can say that he is on his game, and i know those that watched the game will agree.

The second period started slow, but 10 minutes into it Jiri Hidler hooked up with Valteri Fillpula to score the game's first goal. 50 seconds later however, RJ Umberger tied it up for the Jackets on a give-away in front of the net. After that fluke goal though, it was all Wings as they scored two more goals in the Second (Niklas Kronwall Jonathan Ericsson) to lead the Jackets 3-1 at the break.

The 3rd period started with a flash, and it's a familiar sight to us Red Wings fans, that is "The Mule" Johan Franzen scoring yet another playoff goal (13 goals in 16 games last post season). After The Mule raised the difference to 3 it was smooth sailing for the next 17 minutes.


Off Note, I would like to thank the Ducks for shutting out the Sharks in their game 1 matchup.