And The Downward Slide Continues

Dropping their third straight game, the Islanders again let the contest slip through their hands in the third period. For another 40 minutes, the Islanders battled tough, killed a few key penalties and skated with angst. But for 40 minutes. 40 minutes. 40 minutes. 40 Minutes! That seems to be the maximum amount of the time the team can stomache on the ice.

Mike Sillinger, looking better than he had in his previous two games,scored his first goal since last February for the Islanders, a power play goal which tied the game. It was then spoiled by former Islander star Jason Blake, who scored the go ahead third goal in the third period. Blake, who tallied three points, was a big factor in the Leaf's victory over the Isles.

The Islanders will be on the road for their next three games, including another tough battle with the Fylers in Philly. The Islanders have lost both games this season versus Philly, and must pull a trick out of theier sleeves tonight in order to prevent a four game losing streak. Let's pray that maybe 40 minutes is enough tonight to pull out a victory, or that we might even see a 60 minute hockey game for the first time in 2 weeks, but don't count on it !