The Ottawa Senators secured a thrilling 5-4 victory against the San Jose Sharks on Star Wars Night at the Canadian Tire Centre, with Vladimir Tarasenko delivering a game-winning goal in the final moments of the match. Despite Filip Zadina’s late equalizer for the Sharks, Tarasenko capitalized on a rebound from Artem Zub’s point shot, propelling the Senators to a dramatic win with under five seconds on the clock.
Tarasenko’s decisive goal marked the third instance in Senators’ franchise history where they secured a go-ahead marker with five seconds or less remaining in regulation. The previous occurrences were by Milan Michalek and Nick Foligno in 2011, emphasizing the rarity and significance of Tarasenko’s late-game heroics.
The goal faced an unsuccessful challenge for goaltender interference, adding a moment of suspense for the 18,746 spectators and the Senators’ players. Tarasenko, in a light-hearted manner, commented on the challenge, stating, “This might have been my first goal where they say it’s a good goal when I have a challenge. So I was like, just like, come on. It’s a new year; maybe something changed.”
Despite the close score, the Senators dominated the game, outshooting the Sharks 41-18 and attempting 84 shots in total. Sharks’ goalie Mackenzie Blackwood showcased remarkable resilience, keeping his team within striking distance throughout the game.
The Senators initially took a 2-0 lead with goals from Claude Giroux and Thomas Chabot, but the Sharks responded with three unanswered goals to temporarily lead 3-2. Brady Tkachuk and Drake Batherson contributed goals for the Senators, ultimately setting the stage for Tarasenko’s late-game heroics.
Interim head coach Jacques Martin expressed mixed feelings about the defensive lapses that led to the Sharks’ goals but commended the team’s overall effort. Martin highlighted the need for improved game management and acknowledged the team’s progress, stating, “We’ve just got to keep learning about managing the puck better, recognizing situations… It’s nice to see you getting some goals, and I think it was well deserved, with a lot of shots.”
Despite ending a five-game losing streak with just one win, there were positive takeaways for the Senators. The team showcased resilience, bouncing back after the Sharks’ three unanswered goals and maintaining focus after Zadina’s late equalizer. The Senators adopted a more simplified game strategy, with 16 shots on goal and 30 shot attempts from the defensive end, resulting in four goals.
Defenseman Artem Zub had a standout performance, recording a career-high seven shots on goal, three of which led to rebounds and goals. Zub’s three assists also marked an NHL career best. Tim Stützle emphasized the importance of defensive involvement, noting, “Getting all the D’s involved in their shooting is important for us getting pucks on the net today.”
⌛️ IN THE DYING SECONDS ⌛️
Vladimir Tarasenko delivers the game winner for the @Senators! pic.twitter.com/U8aGWfOE6R
— NHL (@NHL) January 13, 2024
Tarasenko, a consistent force for the Senators, emphasized the significance of simplicity and sticking to the game plan for success. He stated, “The big thing that gives you confidence sometimes is a very simple play. You have to learn how to get excited from a simple play to gain confidence.” The veteran forward stressed the importance of grinding out plays and trusting the team’s plan, acknowledging that simple plays often lead to successful outcomes.
The Senators’ victory was marked by late-game heroics, defensive resilience, and a commitment to a simplified and effective game plan. Tarasenko’s goal not only secured a crucial win but also highlighted the team’s ability to overcome challenges and stick to their strategies for success.
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