""It's a sequel that you don't really want to continue to [watch] because they get worse as they continue to go on. We couldn't get our five-on-five game going because it seemed like there were power plays on both sides. It's definitely not a recipe for success." - John Gruden on the Marlies reverting to slow starts The The response was excellent, though, and the Toronto Marlies' penchant for slow starts and an ineffective power play nearly cost them crucial points against their closest rival."
"A high-sticking infraction by Jacob Quillan 58 seconds into the game was not the start the doctor ordered, but Belleville reciprocated with two quick infractions of their own to hand the Marlies a 5v3 for 34 seconds. The key early opportunity fizzled to nothing as Toronto twice failed to maintain o-zone possession with the two extra skaters. The man-advantage mediocrity continued during the 5v4, and t he Senators opened the scoring at the six-minute mark by capitalizing on some sleepy play."
The Toronto Marlies again started slowly and recorded an ineffective power play, allowing Belleville to build a 2-0 lead early. Toronto wasted a 5v3 and other man-advantage chances during the opening 20 minutes, while Belleville scored on its first shot after a stretch pass finished by Mark Duarte. Artur Akhtyamov made key saves to prevent a larger deficit and the penalty kill delivered a strong two-minute effort. The Marlies responded with improved play in the second and third periods and rallied to a 4-3 victory, earning praise for their in-game response despite five-on-five concerns.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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