Rangers First Game Recap
Many of the Rangers problems showed in their first game of the season on Thursday night, as the Rangers were taking on the Phoenix Coyotes.The Coyotes got off to an early 1-0 lead, on a wrist shot by Kyle Chipchura. This goal came just 30 seconds after the Rangers stopped a Coyotes power play. The goal by Chipchura was the only one in the 1st period. The Rangers tied the game in the 2nd period thanks to a power play goal by Marc Staal, which was assisted by Rick Nash and Derek Stepan.
However, it was all downhill from there for the Rangers. The Coyotes took the lead back in the 2nd period with a goal scored by Radim Vrbata about 30 seconds after the Rangers stopped a power play. In the 3rd period the Rangers were never able to get much going in terms of good pressure on offensive plays. The Coyotes capitalized on the Rangers poor play and they picked up 2 more goals in the 3rd period giving them the 4-1 victory and handing the Rangers this bad loss.
The Coyotes took advantage of some mistakes by the Rangers, and they had control for most of the game. The Rangers did receive good news though as captain Ryan Callahan should be back with the team soon and be ready to play with them Monday night.
