[tkflames]

I made the 50 some odd km treck to Abbotsford and watched the game and must say, Backlund's line with Vandergulik and Germyn was absolutely dominant. The Moose had no answer for it. I think Backlund's most distinguishing asset is, when he shoots, regardless of how hard, he shoots it away from the goalie. I think this is the biggest difference between a top 6 and a bottom 6. A top 6 will shoot at the net away from the goalie, while a bottom 6 will just try to hit the net.

Irving didn't have his greatest game, but the goals can't be blamed on him either. The defense was a bit sloppy, but you can definitely tell the collapse and explode toward the point strategy that Sutter has employed, also being practiced in Abbotsford. Still needs some work obviously, but you could definitely tell they were trying.

Chucko impressed me today. He is not affraid to shoot and got involved emmotionally and physically. A good first half and I think he could make an impact on the bottom 2 lines in Calgary. He is a couple of years behind Nystrom in development, but is a very similar player.

Greentree is unbelievably frusterating to watch. The guy has all the tools, but needs a Sutter kick in the A$$. It's not major things, but he seems to do all the little things wrong, or not to his best ability. Example, he will easily let himself be pushed into offside positions when the puck carrier is slow, rather than fighting for the line. It's not a big deal once in a game, but it is the perfect illustration of the difference between him and an NHL player.

Those are the biggest players to stand out for me today. Additional player comments available on specific request.

Much like the Calgary team, when they are not physically involved, they lose a lot of momentum and generally start losing the game. This is what happened in the first period until about halfway through the second. A couple of big hits and fights later it was 3-2 Abby instead of 2-0 Moose.

The atmosphere was great. Considering the team has only been around for a couple of games, the fans got really into it at some parts. The Moose and Heat will have a very good rivalry and there was definitely a lot of Canucks and Flames support there. I think the attendance number announced was around 4400. Just before then I would have guessed based on the number of seats filled it was definitely over half, but less than 2/3 (of 7000 full). I.e. The announced attendance was fairly accurate. Great experience overall, the stadium is beautiful for a 7000 seat arena!