Connect with us

Sports

This Week In Sports: Leafs playoffs hopes cut short by historic rivals

Published

3 years ago

on

BY MARCEL MARIAK

Despite their best efforts, the Maple Leafs got their playoff season cut short by their historic rivals, the Montreal Canadiens. With the rivals facing off in the playoffs for the first time since 1979, Toronto fans were looking forward to an entertaining showdown (and hopefully an eventual win to the series.)

Unfortunately, a series of injuries and unlucky situations resulted in the Leafs’ playoff run being cut short by the Habs.

In case you missed the games, here’s a recap of all seven.

Game 1
Game 1 was action-packed as the puck and momentum of the game changed hands frequently. With Montreal taking the lead in the first period, the Leafs were under pressure to make a comeback. They managed to regain control of their offence and tied the game late in the final minutes of the second period. With the game tied, both teams increased their pressure as they struggled for control of the puck and searched for the game-winning goal. Unfortunately for the Leafs, Montreal clinched Game 1 after Paul Bryon scored a spectacular shorthanded goal while sliding on his knees after getting tripped by a Toronto defender. Final score, 2-1 for the Habs.

To make matters worse, Maple Leafs’ captain, John Tavares collided with Montreal’s Corey Perry after getting body-checked and ended up leaving the ice on a stretcher.

Game 2
With the pressure mounting on Toronto to prevent Montreal from increasing their series lead, the Leafs went into Game 2 ready to perform. Despite their captain suffering a concussion and being unable to return to the ice indefinitely, the Leafs were still confident in their ability to stop Montreal.

From the first faceoff, the Leafs took the initiative. Mounting several scoring attempts within the starting minutes of the game, Toronto instantly put Montreal on its heels. Although Montreal managed to open the scoring midway through the first period, the Leafs quickly regained the offensive and would hold the pressure for the remainder of the game. Using their aggressive approach, the Leafs made quick work of their rivals, winning the game 5-1!

Game 3
With the series tied 1-1, the Leafs entered Game 3 looking to ride the momentum of their previously dominant performance and establish a lead in the series. Despite Toronto’s motivation, the Canadiens started the game with several promising attacks on the Leafs’ defensive line. As the first period wore on, the Leafs seemed to get into the groove of the game and the puck began switching hands more often. At this point, it was anyone’s game.

This time, the Leafs managed to open the scoring as William Nylander scored with twelve minutes left in the second period. Unfortunately, it only took the Habs six minutes to score a goal of their own and tie up the game. This time though, the Leafs refused to give up their lead for long as they mounted yet another attack to regain the lead in the final minutes of the second period.

Although the third period had a handful of interesting actions, it was fruitless for both teams. The Leafs won the game 2-1 and established their first lead of the series.

Game 4
Moving into the fourth game of the series, the Leafs were in no mood to ease the pressure. They were in the lead, had the advantage, and were looking to exploit every opportunity that came their way.

Although the first period was mostly uneventful in terms of scoring, the Leafs made an impact in the second period, scoring three goals to get a significant lead. Despite their comfortable position, the Leafs refused to ease the pressure going into the third period. Scoring yet another point, they silenced their rivals and ended the game with an impressive 4-0 score.

Game 5
As the old adage goes, all good things must come to an end. With the Leafs now leading the series 3-1, they only needed one more win to eliminate their rivals and move onto the next round of playoffs. Unfortunately, Montreal had other plans.

It was in Game 5 that the momentum switched hands and would remain that way for the remainder of the series. Although both teams made a valiant effort during regulation time by scoring three points each, Montreal scored the overtime golden goal to take Game 5 with a score of 4-3.

The Leafs didn’t know it yet, but this result spelled the beginning of the end for their playoff run. Things only went downhill from here.

Game 6
Game 6 was a special night for the Canadiens. For the first time in over a year, a limited number of fans were allowed to attend the game as lockdown restrictions eased up in Montreal. With their hometown “crowd” (if you can call it that) in the Bell Centre, the Habs were more motivated than ever to put on a show.

Despite this, the game got off to a slow start, with neither team able to capitalize for the first two periods of play.

Then, in the third period, the goals started rolling in. With both teams scoring two points in the final period, the game went into overtime. Once again, the Canadiens proved themselves better at handling the pressures of OT and scored a point to end the game 3-2. The series was now tied 3-3 and would be settled in a decisive Game 7.

Game 7
Game 7 also came with an interesting twist. Similarly to Game 6, 550 fully vaccinated healthcare workers were able to watch the game live at the Scotiabank Arena in Downtown Toronto. Unfortunately, the half-thousand fans were unable to help the Leafs secure a victory.

In a similar fashion to their previous game, the first period was scoreless as both teams failed to finish their attacks.

Moving into the second period, Montreal set the tone for the game by scoring two points and putting pressure on Toronto as the game moved into the final period of play.

In the third period, the Leafs became desperate and began attacking in rapid succession. Unfortunately, their efforts were fruitless as Habs goalie, Carey Price, stopped attempt after attempt to keep Montreal ahead.

With three minutes left in the game, Toronto pulled its goalie, which created an opportunity for Montreal to extend its lead with yet another goal. At this point, the writing was on the wall. Although the Leafs managed to score a point as the clock ran down, it was too little too late. The Leafs were defeated 3-1.

With that, the Leafs were sent on an unfortunate early vacation and have no choice but to hope for better luck next year. Montreal, on the other hand, has moved onto round two of the series and faces the Winnipeg Jets.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sports

Aryna Sabalenka: A tennis powerhouse and her historic 2024 Wuhan Open victory

Published

3 weeks ago

on

October 25, 2024

By

Credits: Wang Zhao/AFP/Getty Images

BY KRISHNA MISTRY

In the world of tennis, many players have made a significant impact, one of them being Aryna Sabalenka. The Belarus tennis player is known for her explosive game and aggressive style of play

Sabalenka has become a dominant force on the WTA, always ready for a challenge. Her recent triumph at the 2024 Wuhan Open has further solidified her status as an elite player, adding yet another milestone to her career.

She began playing tennis at a young age, quickly showing promise, and turning professional at the age of twenty-seven in 2015. It wasn’t until 2017 that she truly began to gain recognition when she helped Belarus reach the Fed Cup final. In that year, she also reached the top hundred in the WTA rankings.

Her breakout season came in 2018 when Sabalenka captured her very first WTA title in New Haven, followed by a premier-level victory at the Wuhan Open. By the end of 2018, Sabalenka ranked number eleven, establishing herself as one of tennis’s rising stars.

Over the years, Sabalenka has continued to build on her success, winning several WTA titles and Grand Slam titles. While Sabalenka was successful in regular tour events, she struggled to proceed further in Grand Slam tournaments early in her career.

The 2023 Australian Open marked a significant milestone in Sabalenka’s career when she captured her very first Grand Slam singles title. Her victory highlighted the years of hard work and perseverance, as she defeated some of the best players in the world.

That same year, Sabalenka moved up to the number one spot in the WTA ranking for the first time, briefly dethroning her rival, Iga Świątek. By the end of the season, Sabalenka had firmly established herself as one of the most consistent and dangerous players on tour.

Sabalenka’s dominance continued in 2024, with her most recent achievement coming at the Wuhan Open, a tournament that has become synonymous with her success. In October 2024, Sabalenka secured her third consecutive Wuhan Open title with a hard-fought victory over China’s Zheng Qinwen. The win not only added to her growing collection of trophies but also extended her unbeaten record at the tournament to an astonishing 17-0.

The final, which saw Sabalenka defeat Zheng 6-3, 5-7, 6-3, was a testament to her resilience. After losing focus and allowing Zheng to push the match to a deciding set, Sabalenka regrouped and powered her way to victory. “I felt like I just lost a little bit of focus and I let her come back in the match,” Sabalenka reflected after the win. “It became a three-set match. Balls are getting heavier, it’s the third set, a bit emotional.”

Her victory at the 2024 Wuhan Open marked her second WTA 1000 title of the year and her seventh overall. More significantly, it highlighted her dominance in China, where she has won five of her seventeen career titles. Sabalenka now holds the record for the most titles won in China during the Open Era, further cementing her legacy.

As of late 2024, Sabalenka has already claimed four titles this season, including the Australian Open and the US Open. Her Wuhan Open victory only strengthens her case as one of the premier players of this generation. With her sights set on reclaiming the No. 1 ranking from Iga Świątek, whom she trails by only 69 points, Sabalenka is poised to continue her ascent.

Looking ahead, Aryna Sabalenka’s blend of power, athleticism, and relentless determination makes her a formidable opponent on any surface. As she continues to refine her game and improve her mental toughness, Sabalenka is well-positioned to add more Grand Slam titles to her name and further establish herself as one of the all-time greats in women’s tennis.

Continue Reading

Sports

End of an era: Dwayne Bravo announces his retirement from cricket

Published

4 weeks ago

on

October 15, 2024

By

Credits: Getty/ICC

BY KRISHNA MISTRY

Dwayne Bravo announces his retirement from cricket after a twenty-one-year-long career as a professional cricket player. The forty-one-year-old recently announced on Instagram that he is departing from cricket.

Bravo shares his difficult decision. “Twenty-one years as a professional cricketer – it’s been an incredible journey, filled with many highs and a few lows. Most importantly, I was able to live my dream, because I gave at every step. As much as I’d love to continue this relationship, it’s time to face reality. My mind wants to keep going, but my body can no longer endure: the pain, the breakdowns, and the strain. I can’t put myself in a position where I might let down: my teammates, my fans, or the teams I represent.”

“So, with a heavy heart, I officially announce my retirement from the sport. Today, the Champion bids farewell. To my fans, I want to say a massive THANK YOU for your unwavering love and support throughout the years. To all my fans across the Caribbean, worldwide, and especially in Trinidad & Tobago – thank you for standing by me, especially in these recent weeks.”

I am sure you are wondering who Dwayne Bravo is and why he is so important in cricket. Let’s take a dive into Bravo’s career and his accomplishments. Bravo made his first-class debut for Trinidad and Tobago against Barbados in 2002 when he was just nineteen years old.

In 2003-2004, he made his international debut when England was touring West Indies. Unfortunately, he was not able to bat but was able to take 2-31 when bowling.

Throughout his career, Bravo has faced many injuries, a few being in the early parts of his career. He injured himself in early 2006 during the West Indies tour of New Zealand, where he strained his left side at the start of the tour and was unable to bowl. Bravo still preceded to play as a specialist batsman. His decision showed how far he had come as a cricket player in the previous two years, and demonstrated how much of a crucial player he had become to the West Indies team.

Bravo proves his resilience as he comes back from major losses. After a disappointing series in India. Bravo returned to the top in the ICC Champions 2006, when he took seven wickets at an average of 27.57 and scored one-hundred and sixty-four runs with an average of forty-one.

Bravo has played a total of seven World Cups in his career, from 2007-2019. Not only has he played on the West Indies team, but also has played on IPL teams such as Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and the Gujarat Lions.

On January 31st, 2015, Bravo announced his retirement from Test cricket. A few years later, in October of 2018, he publicized his retirement from international cricket as a whole but mentioned that he would continue playing franchise cricket.

Then in November of 2021, Bravo retired from international cricket and played his last T20I match against Australia at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium. He continued to play league cricket across the globe and finally announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on the 27th of September 2024.

Bravo ended his career with a total of six hundred and thirty-one wickets from five hundred and eight-two T20 appearances, second only to fellow West Indian, Kieron Pollard. Bravo has retired as one of the most decorated players in CPL history.

With five titles in his name, including three with the Trinbaga Knight Riders. He led Trinbaga Knight Riders to back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2017, before guiding the St.Kitts and Nevis Patriots to their maiden title back in 2021.

As Bravo steps away from the sport, his absence will be deeply felt. However, his legacy will undoubtedly live on, not only through his remarkable achievements but also through his passion for cricket, which inspired countless young players to follow in his footsteps.

Continue Reading

Sports

The road to the Super Bowl has begun, and it is going to be an unforgettable ride

Published

2 months ago

on

September 26, 2024

By

BY KRISHNA MISTRY

The NFL season has started, and you know what that means: thrilling games, intense rivalries, fantasy football drama, and endless debates about which team has what it takes to make a run for the Super Bowl! After a long offseason of trades, draft picks, and preparation, the teams are ready to battle it out at the playoffs, and ultimately at the Super Bowl.

For those unfamiliar, the NFL stands for the National Football League, the premier professional American football league. It consists of 32 teams, all of which kicked off their season on September 5th, 2024, with the season running until February 9th, 2025. With so many teams vying for the ultimate prize, let’s break down what to expect during this action-packed season.

The offseason was full of dramatic roster changes, with many teams making trades, or free agent signing to improve their chances in the upcoming season. The biggest highlight was Aaron Rodgers leaving the Green Bay Packers and joining the New York Jets. Several other star players switched teams, and these moves will definitely shape the course of this season.

Keep an eye on players adjusting to their new teams, such as wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins with the Tennessee Titans and running back Dalvin Cook now teaming up with the New York Jets.

As much as fans love high-scoring games, the defense still wins championships, and many teams have built strong units to stop the most lethal offences. Teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills all possess top-tier defenses that could be a factor in their playoff season. Keep an eye out for game-changing plays from defensive units. Sacks, turnovers, and defensive touchdowns could determine which teams rise to the top this year.

Several players will be making their return to the field after their shortened 2023 season due to injuries. Players like Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens quarterback, ready to lead his team into the playoffs. Additionally, with the return of Breece Hall to the Jets and Javonte Williams to the Broncos Bolsters, both young backs are coming off significant injuries, and their recovery could be a game-changer for their respective teams.

As always, the competition for the playoffs is fierce. The AFC (American Football Conference) is stacked with powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals, and Buffalo Bills, all led by elite quarterbacks.

In the NFC (National Football Conference), the Philadelphia Eagles enter as favorites to win the conference again, but teams like the Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions are all eager to challenge their reign. As the season progresses, every win counts and teams will fight for those crucial spots, knowing that a trip to Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII is the ultimate goal.

No NFL season is complete without fantasy football enthusiasts tracking every yard, touchdown, and reception. With so much unpredictability in trades, injuries, and emerging stars, this season promises plenty of fantasy surprises.

Fans will be glued to their screens, tracking every stat, waiver wire pickup, and injury report to gain an edge in their leagues, making every Sunday all the more intense.

With blockbuster trades, the rise of young stars, and fierce competition across divisions, every game will matter as teams chase the ultimate prize—Super Bowl glory. So get your jerseys ready, your fantasy lineups set, and clear your schedule for those must-watch games.

The NFL season is back, and it’s sure to be filled with incredible moments, jaw-dropping plays, and unexpected surprises. Whether you’re cheering from the stands, or from your couch, this season will deliver the passion and excitement we’ve all been waiting for. So get ready for the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The road to the Super Bowl has begun, and it’s going to be an unforgettable ride.

Continue Reading

Trending