The Bruins might want to use their new alternate jerseys more often after beating the Islanders 7-2 Friday afternoon. Michael Ryder wouldn't object to that.
The Islanders were actually the better team to start. Manny Fernandez showed a bit of rust and positioned himself poorly to stop a wrist shot, giving New York a 1-0 lead. They outshot the Bruins 9-7 in the 1st period, and had the better offensive opportunities.
But the B's turned the tables in the 2nd, creating numerous opportunities, and finally breaking through with 2 goals to take a lead.
The 3rd saw a complete meltdown in New York's offense, which gave the Bruins chance after chance after chance. And the Men in Black didn't miss.
Michael Ryder needed a breakout game. Or rather, the Bruins needed him to have a breakout game. And they got it. He was acquired for his ability to finish plays with a goal. But he hadn't been accurate, or very opportunistic. Until Friday afternoon. Both his goals were sniped into the net from distance.
Matt Hunwick extended his point streak to 6 games with 2 assists. Blake Wheeler, David Krejci, and Phil Kessel each tallied a goal and an assist. Manny Fernandez is now 6-1-1, and the Bruins are averaging 4.6 goals per game in his starts this season. They've also scored 20 in his last 3 starts (6.7 per game).
The Bruins have won 8 straight at home, but that streak will be put to the test Saturday night as the Stanley Cup Champion Red Wings come to town.
Sources:
ESPN.com
BostonBruins.com
Photo Credits:
AP Photo/Lisa Poole
