The tone was set early. 13 seconds early. Luke Schenn turned the puck over right after the opening faceoff onto Wojtek Wolski's stick who passed to Marcel Goc for a one-timer to make it 1-0 :13 in.
From there it was business as usual for Florida in Toronto, who won 5-3 in front of a surly crowd who are calling for coach Ron Wilson's head as a dismal 1-8-1 tailspin has their season slipping away.
Subjectively, it is quite rewarding to beat Toronto in their own building. When Toronto, or any other Canadian team, visits South Florida this time of year the obnoxious meter goes off the charts regarding visiting fans. It is as if they feel they deserve a win because they are from Canada. Considering Ottawa is the only Canadian team that gives the Panthers fits, it surely looks like misguided arrogance. Certainly the Panthers have been so bad over the last ten years many fans from Canada took games in Sunrise for granted. Those days are over.
The Panthers answered every challenge the Leafs mustered last night, and of all people Mike Santorelli came through with two goals. Such secondary scoring was much needed as Kris Versteeg and Tomas Kopecky were out with injuries. It has been a struggle for Santorelli this year, who is coming off a 20 goal season last year. If he starts to get it going, watch out. Suddenly the Panthers would have three lines that can score.
The return of Goc was huge, as he is the quiet glue that does the dirty work and is outstanding on special teams. He has nice offensive skills for a mucker, and he is widely known as one of the most hated players to play against.
Jose Theodore gave up more than two goals for the first time in seven starts, but was predictably solid in making 28 saves.
A huge clash awaits tomorrow for the Panthers, who travel to Winnipeg. The Jets are now in third place and four points back after Washington's come-from-behind win against the Islanders last night. The Panthers are 3-0-1 against the Peg this year. The Cats look to take advantage of another struggling team who might be on the verge of watching their playoff hopes slip away.
Twitter @DanSpiegel
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