The New York Rangers got power-play goals from Anton Stralman and captain Ryan Callahan to take a commanding 2-0 lead over the Ottawa Senators after the first period of a pivotal Game 4 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series. New York leads the series 2-1.
Senators Vs. Rangers, NHL Playoffs 2012 Game 4: Rangers Lead 2-0 After First Period
Stralman opened the scoring just 49 seconds into the first period and 10 seconds into New York's first power play, when he beat Senators goalie Craig Anderson with a wrist shot off a rebound from a Brad Richards shot. Marian Gaborik added the second assist. A little over five minutes later, Callahan was left unattended at the side of the goal and was able to sweep a rebound past Anderson after Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson received a questionable tripping minor.
The Rangers finished the first period 2-of-3 on the power play, while the Senators came up empty in their two opportunities with the man advantage. Both teams finished with 12 shots on goal in the first 20 minutes, with the Rangers blocking an additional 10 shots. Ottawa out-hit the Rangers (11-6) and had the edge in the faceoff circle (11-8), but New York leads where it matters most entering the second period.
For more on this series, visit Senators blog Silver Seven and Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter. Stick with SB Nation NHL for more on the quest for Lord Stanley’s Cup.
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