GLENDALE, ARIZONA --- After a second straight one goal win, the Phoenix Coyotes are now one step closer to the second round of the EHL playoffs. Dallas looked like the winner for most of the third period last night, but yet again Phoenix managed to come back late in the game. This time it was Markus Näslund who saved the day with his game-tying goal with only 9 seconds left of the third period. 14 minutes into the first extra period, Mats Sundin then scored the gamewinner.
Despite having a 3-1 lead in the series, the Phoenix management still has some major concerns. Unlike in the regular season, scoring has been a big problem for the team so far, especially on the powerplay. Still, not a single powerplay goal has been scored. For some reason, the team has been unable to find the form that made them the fourth most dangerous team on the powerplay during the regular season. Bob Gaineys attempt to add a fourth forward during the powerplay, and give Mats Sundin time with the first powerplay unit, did not give any results. Gainey refused to comment on whether he would use this tactic in the next game as well.
The offense lack of results has been compensated by a brilliant defense however. So far, Dallas has been limited to a single goal in all but one game. Much thanks to Dwayne Roloson who might be the hottest goalie in the league at the moment, with a .960 saving percentage. Even though a hot goalie might be a necessary component for any team that wish to compete for the Stanley Cup, it is not enough by itself.
Phoenix might also have to play the next game without Joe Nieuwendyk who suffered a concussion early in game 4. Currently he is listed as day-to-day, as the team doctors has not yet given him clearance to play.