Game Recap: Avalanche Fall To Sharks

Afternoon hockey, eh? Avs busted out the spiffy new alternates to host the Sharks today at the Pepsi Center. After playing some decent hockey, they decided to pull the ol' "lose it right at the end" strategy. I hope they shelve that one for a while.

Jarome Iginla would get things going in the 1st, scoring his 4th goal on the year during a power play. Tyson Barrie would pick up the primary assist on the play, proving once again that he's an invaluable asset to the Avalanche 5v4 unit. Joel Wards tied the game two minutes later on a wrister.

A 2nd Period Matt Nieto penalty turned out to be quite eventful. Shortly after the initial faceoff, the Sharks took control of the puck in the Avalanche zone. Barclay Goodrow then kicked the puck out to Brent Burns who ripped a slapshot past Semyon Varlamov from the right circle. It was the second shorthanded goal scored on Colorado this season. However, Francois Beauchemin would tie the game back up before the power play ended, pinching in from the left side. Assists were awarded to Gabe Landeskog and Matt Duchene.

Both teams really clamped down in the 3rd, with the Avs holding San Jose without a shot on goal for an entire nine-minute stretch. Unfortunately, this impressive defensive showing would go missing right when they needed it the most. With just 1:20 left, Brent Burns scored again on a wrist shot through traffic. Patrick Roy challenged the play for goalie interference, but it was never really in jeopardy in being overturned. Colorado would pull their goalie for an extra skater, but would yield an empty net goal after coughing up the puck at the blueline.

If you're like me, this is when mutter obscenities and change the channel, so it's quite possible you missed Dennis Everberg's goal just like I did. Too little too late, Dennis, but we're glad you finally found the net.

San Jose wins it 4-3.