I get the whole strive for the perfect game kind of thing.
And maybe it's because I'm a cup half full kind of guy, but I say take the points and run in last night's 6-4 win over Guelph.
The Kitchener Rangers had a muted response to the win, a huge one I might add, despite relinquishing three third period goals and allowing Guelph to come within one of the lead in a game they clearly had under control through 40 minutes.
Let's look at the positives:
* The power play went 3-for-6, yes THREE power play goals for the Rangers. What a new weapon for the club if the PP gets going.
* Radek Faksa (above) scored his first goal since Dec. 1. Sure he's only played 10 games, but goal aside, he had a strong game.
* The PK was great and stopped eight Guelph power plays.
* The Rangers chased Guelph goalie Garret Sparks from the game. While his OHL numbers are fantastic, he has looked pedestrian against the Rangers all season, which is a good sign since these clubs appear destined to meet in the first round of the playoffs.
* The victory puts Kitchener five up on Guelph in the OHL's tight western conference race.
* And did I mention goalie John Gibson is set to return Friday? It's no lock as he has to get the all clear, but the coaching staff fully expects him in net. If not Friday, at least he's on the cusp of returning.
So, while there was no music playing in celebration in the Rangers' dressing room after last night's tilt and the mood had a kind of "my dog just died" feeling, be happy that the third period collapse happened now and not in the post-season.
Time to shift the focus to Saginaw on Friday. It could be the healthiest, most potent lineup the Rangers have fielded this season.
