Comment 1: Vancouver Avenges Losses
A season series that, prior to this game, was 2-0 in favor of Halifax. The rivalry between the Halifax Raiders and the Vancouver Whalers goes beyond the ice, which can be sprinkled across the SMJHL media. Whether it be a post-game confrontation, or the respective media trying to get under opposing players' skins, there is always something happening between these two teams.

Vancouver looked hungry to avenge those early season losses to the Raiders, and it showed with an early goal 30 seconds in to the first period. While the Raiders would eventually tie it up, the Whalers were determined to take this game and they held on to bring the season series to 2-1 in favor of Halifax.

Comment 2: Special Teams
This is where the league's best teams separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Seizing your opportunity with the man advantage, or getting a big defensive boost with a penalty kill could make the difference. Both powerplays posted a goose egg (Whalers 0 for 3 / Raiders 0 for 6). However, was it poor powerplays or exceptional penalty killing? I would say a mixture of both.

The Whalers posted 12 blocked shots as a team, contributing greatly to the PK success. Laying the body on the line to ensure the win. While the PK looked good, Luke was not happy with the amount of penalties taken by his team and it is an area of focus to stay disciplined. However, on the Raiders side of the puck, they let golden opportunities slip with the missed opportunities. Your top players need to step up when needed most, which unfortunately was not the case.

Comment 3: First Line Difference
In tight games you need your best players to step up to the plate which was only the case for one team tonight. The Whalers first line of Cannellini, Mikulak, and Gray combined for 10 points while also going +10. At the opposite end of the ice the Raiders' first line of Reynolds, Kohlin, and Slothface put up a combined 0 points and went -5. Not the type of stat line you'd expect to see from players who have a lot to say off the ice.

Cannellini continued his impressive season with a huge game, having his hand in each of Vancouver's goals. The Raiders could not contain the speed and skill of the Whalers' first line, which skated circles around them all night, taking advantage of their dominant 5 on 5 play. The first line has been Vancouver's biggest weapon, and they once again lead them to victory. This could be problematic if the first line decides to take a night off, but on a night where revenge was on their minds, they came to play.