The Fifth Liners

In the opening days of Ice Hockey in Sochi 2014 , we have seen a vast array of goals being scored (50 the count so far in case you were wondering) and we have seen some impressive team performances. It may be early doors so far, but we are beginning to get an idea of who might be in contention for medals soon! Here is a review of the action so far: Group A   The USA started strongly with a 7-1 win over an uninspired Slovakia team who lacked any real threat. Phil Kessel was the star man with a goal and two assists, Ryan Kesler and James Van Riemsdyk also impressed. Goalie wise, the Slovaks had a torrid time with St Louis' Jaroslav Halak being yanked on from net with the score at 5-1, only for backup Peter Budaj to be beaten on his very first shot faced! But with Jonathan Quick looking impressive in net and an offense that could do some damage, it appears my initial thoughts about the US could be proven wrong! Hosts Russia began strongly with a 5-2 win over Slovenia in a game...

Montreal has been dealt another cruel blow in their quest to advance from Eastern Conference quarter final against Ottawa as today regular Goalie Carey Price has been ruled out with a lower body injury which will mean that backup Peter Budaj will take his place in next for the remainder of the series. After losing Captain Brian Gionta already this week, the odds against them are steadily increasing as The Habs are already 3-1 down in this series and losing two stars players has trimed even more their slim chances. But Budaj is a solid backup goalie and has proven himself able to be called upon when needed so Habs fans can take some comfort in this fact.  Get well soon Carey from both of us here