There is still hope

I was forced to watch the game on tape delay because of that thing we refer to as work but it was well worth the wait.  Once again it wasn't how they drew it up but it counts for two points in the standings.  I sat here thinking that it would be fitting to see the Sabres season end in a shootout but it didn't happen, at least not tonight.  Tonight could have easily been the end with Toronto going ahead 1-0 just 31 seconds into the game. Buffalo pressed hard for the entire period but Tomas Kaberle put the Leafs ahead 2-0 after Ryan Miller badly misplayed a wrap around.

Buffalo never gave up and was finally rewarded with their hard work when Steve Bernier was credited with a controversial goal to tie the game.  It was really difficult to see where the puck was before the net came off the moorings but they allowed the goal and it appeared Buffalo had the momentum but the Leafs regained the lead.  Thomas Vanek came through in the clutch and tipped a point shot by Andrej Sekera by Raycroft for a power play goal.

I have been very critical of Ryan Miller, especially in the shootout, but he was clutch after being fooled by Kaberle on the Leafs first attempt.  Miller made five saves in the shootout and Max Afinogenov became the hero scoring the winner in the shootout.  It was good to see Miller regain his shootout form from season ago although you still have to lament the lost points in a shootout this season.

The Sabres don't play tomorrow but hockey will prevelant tomorrow watching the other teams.  Tomorrow night all Sabres fans will be cheering on Tampa Bay (vs. Carolina), Pittsburgh (vs. Philly) and New Jersey (vs. Boston).  I know I'll be watching and I may even put up an open thread if anyone wants to join me.  Let me know what you think about the open thread.