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Wolves Wed Apr 23 2008
Winning ain't easy, but Wolves finding ways
Following the Game 1 overtime heartbreak loss, the Wolves bounced back to take Games 2 and 3 from the Milwaukee Admirals last weekend heading into tonight’s Game 4 in Milwaukee. Chicago has never lost a best-of-seven series they’ve had a 2-1 lead in, but the Admirals are always a stiff test. Eight of the 13 contests between the two teams this season have been decided by one goal, including all three postseason contests. However, the Wolves do own an 8-4-1 advantage against the Admirals this year, meaning although the games have been close, Chicago has found ways to earn Ws.
Recapping, in Game 2, Wolves forward Jesse Schultz netted the game-winner at 5:54 of the third period, just 27 seconds after Milwaukee had tied the game at 1-1. The Wolves survived a late powerplay and 6-on-4 advantage as goalie Ondrej Pavelec made 26 saves and earned his first playoff victory.
Darren Haydar’s overtime tally, his second of the game, gave the Wolves a come-from-behind 4-3 win in Game 3. Chicago had entered the third ahead 2-1, but Milwaukee’s Josh Langfeld netted a quick pair of goals to put the Admirals up 3-2. In what may be the turning point of the series, Wolves forward Kevin Doell tied the game at 3 with a shorthanded breakaway tally against Ads goalie Pekka Rinne. Had Milwaukee scored on the powerplay instead, the Wolves would have faced a two goal deficit with 8 minutes left, most likely giving the Admirals the game and series lead, as well as a huge momentum boost.
As it stands, though the remaining games expect to be tight, a victory tonight will put the Wolves in the driver’s seat and returning home for Game 5 tomorrow. And don’t forget, anyone going to the game gets free food!