Winnipeg Jets snap two-game losing streak, shutout Phoenix Coyotes 1-0 -NHL Update
Ondrej Pavelec blocked all 33 shots on his net to lift the Winnipeg Jets to a shutout victory over the Phoenix Coyotes, 1-0, snapping their two-game losing streak on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at the sold out MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Phoenix goalie, Mike Smith, also had a brilliant performance by blocking 30 shots, but fell short on one during the first period which ultimately cost them the match and the chance to extend their winning streak to three straight.
"I think we wanted to get this win for the fans," said Winnipeg’s 24-year-old centre player, Bryan Little, said. "You know and hopefully create a bit of a rivalry with them and I think it was an exciting game to be a part of and I think the fans enjoyed
it."
Bryan Little made the only shot of the match which turned out to be the game winner for the Jets 6:53 into the first period, but it looked like Phoenix would catch up as Little was penalised with two minutes left for slashing, giving the Coyotes their first
added man advantage of the night, but failing to capitalise on it.
Arturs Kulda had Phoenix on another 5-on-4 man advantage nearly midway through the second when he was booked for hooking with a minor penalty, but the Jets remaining strong and managed to kill it off.
"It's always important after you don't play well, especially me, I didn't feel good in the Ottawa game," Pavelec said about their previous loss. "It was great I had the chance to play again and bounce back. It's always a good feeling when you help the team
to win."
Winnipeg is still stuck in the 13th number spot of the Eastern Conference and will be looking to move up in the rankings as the 2011-2012 National Hockey League (NHL) regular season progresses, making positioning crucial with every day that passes.
The Jets have their next home matchup against the New Jersey Devils on Thursday, while the Coyotes will also be returning to Phoenix in order to host the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, December 3, 2011.
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