It was an easier day for the "It Girl." After surviving three match points in a tough three set struggle against American Mashona Washington in the opening round Sunday, Maria Sharapova was in better form against Czech Iveta Benesova.
Despite still not being 100 percent due to a taped right ankle, the fourth seeded Russian fought off the challenge of the 53rd ranked Benesova to post a 6-4, 6-1 victory Wednesday at Court Philippe Chatrier.
Benesova made a name for herself with a first round upset of Mary Pierce at this year's Australian Open. But Sharapova didn't become another victim. Instead, she overpowered her opponent, finishing with 29 winners to only 12 for Benesova.
The opening set saw each player trade breaks before Sharapova broke back for 3-2 before rain delayed the action. When they resumed, she held serve three more times and claimed the 42-minute first set on an ace out wide.
Though she had an easier time with Benesova in the second set, she still had to work for the victory, finishing it off in style with a forehand winner for her fifth break of the match.
"It is never easy. But you just have to adjust and be patient," Sharapova told the AP regarding the rain and unusual windy conditions which made it tough.
She'll meet Aussie Alicia Molik in Round 3. Molik eliminated Romanian qualifier Anda Perianu 3-6, 7-6 (5), 6-3.
Also tested in the second round was top seeded Frenchwoman Amelie Mauresmo. The '06 Australian Open champion held off 19-year-old Russian Vera Dushevina 6-1, 7-6 (5).
After having little trouble in the first set, Mauresmo found herself down 3-5 in the second set. But after holding to stay in the set, she broke Dushevina to draw even at five all. However, momentum was shortlived when Dushevina broke right back to give herself another chance to level the match. But a determined Mauresmo once again broke to force a tiebreak.
In it, she played steadier and jumped out to a 6-2 lead to setup four match points. But Dushevina wouldn't go quietly, fighting off the first three thanks to help from Mauresmo who misfired three of her 53 unforced errors to make things interesting. Instead of wilting, she played a smart final match point, using a slice backhand to draw a forehand error from her opponent to claim victory.
"I struggled a lot in the second set. The level of the game was not as high as I wished," Mauresmo expressed afterwards. "I was hitting shots but not building the points."
"But my experience, from a psychological and a technical point of view, made the difference," she said.
Mauresmo will next face Jelena Jankovic in the third round. Jankovic cameback to knock out 25th seeded Marion Bartoli 2-6, 6-4, 6-1.
Also advancing was 11th seeded American Venus Williams with a straight set victory over Finn Emma Laine 7-6 (2), 6-2.
With the action delayed due to rain, the match didn't get underway until approximately 8:15 PM Paris time. With it being uncertain whether they'd complete it, Williams struggled early on. Spraying many of her 31 unforced errors, she fell behind 0-4 before rallying to force a tiebreak.
In it, she steadied herself to claim the 57-minute first set and then played much better in the second set en route to the win. Williams finished with 38 winners to only 11 for Laine. Ultimately, that proved to be the difference in a match which didn't conclude until past 9:30.
Williams plays Croat Karolina Sprem next. Sprem was a 6-4, 4-3 (ret.) winner over China's Shuai Peng.
Also advancing was eighth seeded Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova over Italian Mara Santangelo 7-5, 6-2. Ninth seeded Italian Francesca Schiavone posted a 6-2, 6-2 victory over German Martina Muller. Russian Dinara Safina (14) ousted Czech Hana Sromova 6-0, 6-2 while 16th seeded Czech Nicole Vaidisova defeated China's Tiantian Sun 6-1, 6-3. Slovak Katarina Srebotnik (24) took out American Ashley Harkleroad 6-3, 6-2.
Other seeded winners included Patty Schnyder (7) and Flavia Pennetta (17).
A couple of seeds fell on the day. Ai Sugiyama (22) was eliminated by Aravane Rezai in three sets 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. Na Li upset Anna Chakvetadze (27) 7-5, 6-3 and Julia Vakulenko stopped Sofia Arvidsson (29) 6-1, 7-5.
Frenchwoman Alize Cornet also was a second round winner.
The second round later today featuring defending champion Justine Henin-Hardenne (5), Kim Clijsters (2) and former '04 runner up Elena Dementieva (6) all in action.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Federer Marches On To Third Round
Roger Federer easily moved into the third round at Roland Garros with a straight set triumph over lucky loser Alejandro Falla 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 Wednesday on Day Four of the French Open.
After being tested in the opening round by qualifier Diego Hartfield, the world number one had more trouble with the rain which interrupted play twice than his 139th ranked opponent.
"I could play very freely, which was a nice feeling to have this time around. The first round was more difficult," Federer told reporters after disposing of Falla in an hour 28-minutes.
"It's not easy, you know, to come on and off. Conditions are really slow and wet and everything," he added. "I'm just happy to be through. The match was okay. I sort of played really well in the first set. After that it was on and off. That was I think normal with the rain."
After a routine 20-minute first set, Federer worked harder to secure the second set with a break of serve on a forehand winner in the seventh game shortly after the first rain delay. From that point, he was in control and would cruise to victory with two more breaks in the third set.
"I thought I was always in control of the match," Federer pointed out. "He maybe had one little chance on break point to come back in the second set, but that was it. Otherwise, I always felt I was pretty much in control."
Federer will next take on 32nd seeded Chilean Nicolas Massu, who eliminated "The Beast" Max Mirnyi 6-4, 7-5, 6-4.
While the top seed took care of business, third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian withstood a challenge from 19-year-old Frenchman Richard Gasquet- advancing in four sets, 6-2, 3-6, 7-5, 6-0.
The match lasted two and a half hours. After each player split the first two sets, the pivotal third set was tight. After being broken by Gasquet to trail 3-4, Nalbandian broke back immediately to draw even. Gasquet fought off three more break points in the ninth game but eventually succumbed to Nalbandian's constant pressure in the 12th game to drop the set. From that point, the third seed assumed command against a gased Gasquet.
"My game wasn't as subtle as it was at the beginning," Nalbandian said afterwards. "There was a lot of wind. At one point I think I played six or seven games with the wind against me. But I realised that I had a quicker pace than him and that I was not going to lose."
Nalbandian will next meet either Dmitry Tursunov or Tim Henman. The 31st seeded Russian led Henman two sets to none before play was suspended. The match will be completed later today. One other men's second round match which will resume is between 21st seeded Frenchman Sebastien Grosjean and Argentine M.Vassallo Arguello. Grosjean leads Arguello two sets to one.
Sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko was a 6-2, 4-1 winner when Flavio Saretta retired. Tenth seeded Argentine Gaston Gaudio needed five sets before prevailing over Russian Evgeny Korolev 6-3, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 3-6, 6-4.
German Nicolas Kiefer (13) had an even tougher time with Frenchman Marc Gicquel, outlasting him 6-0, 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 11-9. The match took four hours 50-minutes and the final set lasted an hour 55-minutes before Kiefer prevailed. He slugged 87 winners and had 81 unforced errors and broke his opponent nine times.
Croat Mario Ancic (12) also moved on in straight sets over Paul Capdeville 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (3). Czech Tomas Berdych (20) defeated Italian Filippo Volandri 6-3, 6-1, 6-1. Former '03 French winner Juan Carlos Ferrero ousted German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-2, 6-4, 6-2. Spaniard Carlos Moya (30) also moved on with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 victory over Mikhail Youzhny.
One seed did fall. Argentine Jose Acasuso (26) was upset by Czech Lukas Dlouhy 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-3, 6-1.
Other Round 2 winners included Raemon Sluiter and Alberto Montanes, who upset Andy Roddick in the first round.
Second round action continues Thursday with American James Blake taking on Nicolas Almagro while defending champion Rafael Nadal battles American Kevin Kim.
After being tested in the opening round by qualifier Diego Hartfield, the world number one had more trouble with the rain which interrupted play twice than his 139th ranked opponent.
"I could play very freely, which was a nice feeling to have this time around. The first round was more difficult," Federer told reporters after disposing of Falla in an hour 28-minutes.
"It's not easy, you know, to come on and off. Conditions are really slow and wet and everything," he added. "I'm just happy to be through. The match was okay. I sort of played really well in the first set. After that it was on and off. That was I think normal with the rain."
After a routine 20-minute first set, Federer worked harder to secure the second set with a break of serve on a forehand winner in the seventh game shortly after the first rain delay. From that point, he was in control and would cruise to victory with two more breaks in the third set.
"I thought I was always in control of the match," Federer pointed out. "He maybe had one little chance on break point to come back in the second set, but that was it. Otherwise, I always felt I was pretty much in control."
Federer will next take on 32nd seeded Chilean Nicolas Massu, who eliminated "The Beast" Max Mirnyi 6-4, 7-5, 6-4.
While the top seed took care of business, third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian withstood a challenge from 19-year-old Frenchman Richard Gasquet- advancing in four sets, 6-2, 3-6, 7-5, 6-0.
The match lasted two and a half hours. After each player split the first two sets, the pivotal third set was tight. After being broken by Gasquet to trail 3-4, Nalbandian broke back immediately to draw even. Gasquet fought off three more break points in the ninth game but eventually succumbed to Nalbandian's constant pressure in the 12th game to drop the set. From that point, the third seed assumed command against a gased Gasquet.
"My game wasn't as subtle as it was at the beginning," Nalbandian said afterwards. "There was a lot of wind. At one point I think I played six or seven games with the wind against me. But I realised that I had a quicker pace than him and that I was not going to lose."
Nalbandian will next meet either Dmitry Tursunov or Tim Henman. The 31st seeded Russian led Henman two sets to none before play was suspended. The match will be completed later today. One other men's second round match which will resume is between 21st seeded Frenchman Sebastien Grosjean and Argentine M.Vassallo Arguello. Grosjean leads Arguello two sets to one.
Sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko was a 6-2, 4-1 winner when Flavio Saretta retired. Tenth seeded Argentine Gaston Gaudio needed five sets before prevailing over Russian Evgeny Korolev 6-3, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 3-6, 6-4.
German Nicolas Kiefer (13) had an even tougher time with Frenchman Marc Gicquel, outlasting him 6-0, 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 11-9. The match took four hours 50-minutes and the final set lasted an hour 55-minutes before Kiefer prevailed. He slugged 87 winners and had 81 unforced errors and broke his opponent nine times.
Croat Mario Ancic (12) also moved on in straight sets over Paul Capdeville 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (3). Czech Tomas Berdych (20) defeated Italian Filippo Volandri 6-3, 6-1, 6-1. Former '03 French winner Juan Carlos Ferrero ousted German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-2, 6-4, 6-2. Spaniard Carlos Moya (30) also moved on with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 victory over Mikhail Youzhny.
One seed did fall. Argentine Jose Acasuso (26) was upset by Czech Lukas Dlouhy 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-3, 6-1.
Other Round 2 winners included Raemon Sluiter and Alberto Montanes, who upset Andy Roddick in the first round.
Second round action continues Thursday with American James Blake taking on Nicolas Almagro while defending champion Rafael Nadal battles American Kevin Kim.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Ankle Injury Forces Roddick To Retire
Andy Roddick's run of bad luck continued at Roland Garros Tuesday. The slumping fifth seeded American was forced to retire against Spaniard Alberto Martin due to reinjuring his ankle. Trailing 4-6, 5-7, 0-1, Roddick finally decided it was too much of a risk to continue, making it the third time he hasn't gotten out of the first round in Paris.
Despite putting forth a valiant effort from the baseline, he tweaked his ankle a couple of different times while trying to slide across on the clay to play back shots. He originally injured it last week at the World Team Cup.
After dropping the opening set, Roddick was locked in a tight battle to try to level the match when he fell awkwardly and twisted the ankle.
"At 5-all when I tried to go back for an overhead, I kind of caught it the wrong way again," Roddick told reporters after the disappointing conclusion.
"It started affecting the way I landed on my serve. Not much else was working besides my serve. It was a lost cause, I think. I didn't think it was going to be a hundred percent. Maybe I was stupidly optimistic last week. But I was definitely tentative sliding around out there."
Since losing to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final last year, Roddick has been knocked out twice in the first round ('05 U.S. Open, '06 French Open). He lost in the fourth round to eventual Australian Open runner up Marcos Baghdatis back in January. He hasn't won a title this year.
"Right now I just want to get healthy," added Roddick. "It's been an extremely annoying the last month or so. It's frustrating. You feel kind of helpless because mentally you're one way, then physically you're another."
While Roddick's frustrations mounted, the same could be said for 17th seeded American Robby Ginepri. Having won just three matches all year, Ginepri was knocked off by Spaniard Albert Montanes 6-3, 6-7 (2), 6-1, 6-4. The match took two days to complete. Despite having an extra day to comeback, Ginepri couldn't force a fifth set.
"I'm out there, and I'm wondering: How am I going to win the next point? I'm questioning. I'm not out there trusting my instincts, I'm not out there believing I can overcome whatever I need to," Ginepri said. "I don't feel that hunger that I've had."
Ginepri's loss leaves just two Americans alive in the men's field, making it the second time since 1967 that the United States had just two men left entering the second round. It also took place last year leaving Roddick to conclude,"It's like 'Groundhog Day."' "Whatever I said last year, just copy it. Whatever I said last year, I'm sure it still fits."
Just lucky loser Kevin Kim and eighth seeded American James Blake remain. Kim has the daunting task of having to face defending champ Rafael Nadal next while Blake takes on clay court specialist Nicolas Almagro.
While it was a tough day for the American men, fourth seeded Croat Ivan Ljubicic disposed of Argentine Carlos Belocq 6-2, 6-0, 6-3. Ninth seeded Chilean Fernando Gonzalez advanced in four sets over Russian Marat Safin 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, 6-1. Also moving on was 14th seeded Aussie Lleyton Hewitt with a 7-6 (5), 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 victory over Czech Jan Hernych.
In a battle of Spaniards, David Ferrer (15) prevailed in straight sets over Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 7-5, 6-1, 6-0. Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis (19) advanced in four sets over Albert Portas 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1. In a German showdown, Tommy Haas (23) was a 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 winner over Rainer Schuettler. Meanwhile, 22nd seeded Slovak Dominik Hrbaty needed five before posting a 6-4, 6-2, 3-6, 2-6, 6-3 win over Argentine Sergio Roitman.
Belgian Olivier Rochus (27) also moved into Round 2 with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Frenchman Jean-Christophe Faurel. While he was taking care of business, older brother Christophe Rochus cameback from two sets down to upend 18th seeded Swede Thomas Johansson 3-6, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2. Spaniard Fernando Verdasco (28) defeated Argentine Juan Ignacio Chela in four 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-4. Frenchman Paul-Henri Mathieu (29) also advanced with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-1 win over Bjorn Phau.
In a battle of 19-year-olds, 25th seeded Frenchman Gaels Monfils prevailed over British Scot Andy Murray 6-4, 6-7 (2), 1-6, 6-2, 6-1.
Other notables who moved on included Julien Benneteau, Dick Norman, Jiri Vanek, Davide Sanguinetti, Ivo Karlovic and Novak Djokovic.
The second round gets underway later today.
Despite putting forth a valiant effort from the baseline, he tweaked his ankle a couple of different times while trying to slide across on the clay to play back shots. He originally injured it last week at the World Team Cup.
After dropping the opening set, Roddick was locked in a tight battle to try to level the match when he fell awkwardly and twisted the ankle.
"At 5-all when I tried to go back for an overhead, I kind of caught it the wrong way again," Roddick told reporters after the disappointing conclusion.
"It started affecting the way I landed on my serve. Not much else was working besides my serve. It was a lost cause, I think. I didn't think it was going to be a hundred percent. Maybe I was stupidly optimistic last week. But I was definitely tentative sliding around out there."
Since losing to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final last year, Roddick has been knocked out twice in the first round ('05 U.S. Open, '06 French Open). He lost in the fourth round to eventual Australian Open runner up Marcos Baghdatis back in January. He hasn't won a title this year.
"Right now I just want to get healthy," added Roddick. "It's been an extremely annoying the last month or so. It's frustrating. You feel kind of helpless because mentally you're one way, then physically you're another."
While Roddick's frustrations mounted, the same could be said for 17th seeded American Robby Ginepri. Having won just three matches all year, Ginepri was knocked off by Spaniard Albert Montanes 6-3, 6-7 (2), 6-1, 6-4. The match took two days to complete. Despite having an extra day to comeback, Ginepri couldn't force a fifth set.
"I'm out there, and I'm wondering: How am I going to win the next point? I'm questioning. I'm not out there trusting my instincts, I'm not out there believing I can overcome whatever I need to," Ginepri said. "I don't feel that hunger that I've had."
Ginepri's loss leaves just two Americans alive in the men's field, making it the second time since 1967 that the United States had just two men left entering the second round. It also took place last year leaving Roddick to conclude,"It's like 'Groundhog Day."' "Whatever I said last year, just copy it. Whatever I said last year, I'm sure it still fits."
Just lucky loser Kevin Kim and eighth seeded American James Blake remain. Kim has the daunting task of having to face defending champ Rafael Nadal next while Blake takes on clay court specialist Nicolas Almagro.
While it was a tough day for the American men, fourth seeded Croat Ivan Ljubicic disposed of Argentine Carlos Belocq 6-2, 6-0, 6-3. Ninth seeded Chilean Fernando Gonzalez advanced in four sets over Russian Marat Safin 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, 6-1. Also moving on was 14th seeded Aussie Lleyton Hewitt with a 7-6 (5), 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 victory over Czech Jan Hernych.
In a battle of Spaniards, David Ferrer (15) prevailed in straight sets over Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 7-5, 6-1, 6-0. Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis (19) advanced in four sets over Albert Portas 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1. In a German showdown, Tommy Haas (23) was a 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 winner over Rainer Schuettler. Meanwhile, 22nd seeded Slovak Dominik Hrbaty needed five before posting a 6-4, 6-2, 3-6, 2-6, 6-3 win over Argentine Sergio Roitman.
Belgian Olivier Rochus (27) also moved into Round 2 with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Frenchman Jean-Christophe Faurel. While he was taking care of business, older brother Christophe Rochus cameback from two sets down to upend 18th seeded Swede Thomas Johansson 3-6, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2. Spaniard Fernando Verdasco (28) defeated Argentine Juan Ignacio Chela in four 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-4. Frenchman Paul-Henri Mathieu (29) also advanced with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-1 win over Bjorn Phau.
In a battle of 19-year-olds, 25th seeded Frenchman Gaels Monfils prevailed over British Scot Andy Murray 6-4, 6-7 (2), 1-6, 6-2, 6-1.
Other notables who moved on included Julien Benneteau, Dick Norman, Jiri Vanek, Davide Sanguinetti, Ivo Karlovic and Novak Djokovic.
The second round gets underway later today.
Hingis' Return Off To Good Start
The stirring comeback of Martina Hingis continues to go well. After a surprising run to the quarters in Australia, the five-time grand slam champion had a successful return to Roland Garros- posting a 6-2, 6-2 opening round victory over American Lisa Raymond Tuesday at Court Philippe Chatrier.
"Somehow it didn't feel like it's that long," Hingis told the AP after coming out victorious in her first match at Roland Garros in five years.
"Maybe also because I had a first round opponent who I was comfortable with but, you know, I had to go out there and do my job. I'm pleased with my win today."
Fresh off her win at Rome two weeks ago, Hingis had little trouble with Raymond. After a routine first set, she saved all four break points on her serve in the second set to cruise to victory, which was punctuated by a volley winner.
Hingis made only 15 unforced errors compared to 25 for her opponent. The 12th seeded Swiss Miss is a two-time runner up but isn't putting any pressure on herself to add another trophy.
"I don't want to put any extra pressure on myself because I don't have to," she pointed out. "Of course, it feels better moving into tournaments, Grand Slams, with having won the last tournament. It definitely gives me hopes and the confidence."
Hingis will next face Czech Zuzana Ondraskova in the second round. Ondraskova defeated German Julia Schruff 6-4, 6-2.
Also moving on was defending champion Justine Henin-Hardenne with a 6-3, 6-0 win over Maret Ani. Tenth seeded Russian Anastasia Myskina advanced over Sania Mirza 6-4, 6-1. German Anna-Lena Groenefeld (13) defeated Camille Pin 6-1, 6-1. Slovak Daniela Hantuchova (15) posted a 6-1, 6-4 win over Spaniard Lourdes Dominguez Lino.
Meanwhile, 20th seeded Russian Maria Kirilenko cameback to beat Frenchwoman Severine Bremond in three sets 1-6, 6-2, 8-6. Spaniard Anabel Medina Garrigues also cameback from a set down to oust Victoria Azarenka 0-6, 6-3, 9-7. In a match which took two hours 45-minutes to complete, Argentina's Gisela Dulko (32) outlasted Ukraine's Yulia Beygelzimer 6-3, 2-6, 11-9.
Other seeds who advanced included Ana Ivanovic (19) and Israeli Shahar Peer (31).
However the day wasn't without a major upset. Japan's Akiko Morigami stunned third seeded Russian Nadia Petrova 6-2, 6-2. Petrova had entered red hot having won three clay court titles and was expected to challenge for her first career slam. But due in large part to a left leg injury sustained during practice, she struggled mightily against Morigami.
"It's a new injury I've never experienced," Petrova said afterwards. "I couldn't move and felt slow and it was affecting me in the head. Morigami played her best, but there is no excuse for me not winning the match."
"I'm disappointed because I was really looking forward to this. I've had really good results here. It was really unfortunate what happened to me. It was bad luck."
Petrova wasn't the only casuality on the women's side. Frenchwoman Tatiana Golovin (23) fell to China's Jie Zheng 3-6, 6-7 (5). Italian Tathiana Garbin eliminated Czech Klara Koukalova (30) 2-6, 6-4, 6-1.
American Jill Craybas fell to Bulgaria's Anastasiya Yakimova 4-6, 7-5, 3-6. But the day wasn't a total loss for America thanks to straight set victories by Shenay Perry and Jamea Jackson.
The second round gets underway Wednesday at Roland Garros.
"Somehow it didn't feel like it's that long," Hingis told the AP after coming out victorious in her first match at Roland Garros in five years.
"Maybe also because I had a first round opponent who I was comfortable with but, you know, I had to go out there and do my job. I'm pleased with my win today."
Fresh off her win at Rome two weeks ago, Hingis had little trouble with Raymond. After a routine first set, she saved all four break points on her serve in the second set to cruise to victory, which was punctuated by a volley winner.
Hingis made only 15 unforced errors compared to 25 for her opponent. The 12th seeded Swiss Miss is a two-time runner up but isn't putting any pressure on herself to add another trophy.
"I don't want to put any extra pressure on myself because I don't have to," she pointed out. "Of course, it feels better moving into tournaments, Grand Slams, with having won the last tournament. It definitely gives me hopes and the confidence."
Hingis will next face Czech Zuzana Ondraskova in the second round. Ondraskova defeated German Julia Schruff 6-4, 6-2.
Also moving on was defending champion Justine Henin-Hardenne with a 6-3, 6-0 win over Maret Ani. Tenth seeded Russian Anastasia Myskina advanced over Sania Mirza 6-4, 6-1. German Anna-Lena Groenefeld (13) defeated Camille Pin 6-1, 6-1. Slovak Daniela Hantuchova (15) posted a 6-1, 6-4 win over Spaniard Lourdes Dominguez Lino.
Meanwhile, 20th seeded Russian Maria Kirilenko cameback to beat Frenchwoman Severine Bremond in three sets 1-6, 6-2, 8-6. Spaniard Anabel Medina Garrigues also cameback from a set down to oust Victoria Azarenka 0-6, 6-3, 9-7. In a match which took two hours 45-minutes to complete, Argentina's Gisela Dulko (32) outlasted Ukraine's Yulia Beygelzimer 6-3, 2-6, 11-9.
Other seeds who advanced included Ana Ivanovic (19) and Israeli Shahar Peer (31).
However the day wasn't without a major upset. Japan's Akiko Morigami stunned third seeded Russian Nadia Petrova 6-2, 6-2. Petrova had entered red hot having won three clay court titles and was expected to challenge for her first career slam. But due in large part to a left leg injury sustained during practice, she struggled mightily against Morigami.
"It's a new injury I've never experienced," Petrova said afterwards. "I couldn't move and felt slow and it was affecting me in the head. Morigami played her best, but there is no excuse for me not winning the match."
"I'm disappointed because I was really looking forward to this. I've had really good results here. It was really unfortunate what happened to me. It was bad luck."
Petrova wasn't the only casuality on the women's side. Frenchwoman Tatiana Golovin (23) fell to China's Jie Zheng 3-6, 6-7 (5). Italian Tathiana Garbin eliminated Czech Klara Koukalova (30) 2-6, 6-4, 6-1.
American Jill Craybas fell to Bulgaria's Anastasiya Yakimova 4-6, 7-5, 3-6. But the day wasn't a total loss for America thanks to straight set victories by Shenay Perry and Jamea Jackson.
The second round gets underway Wednesday at Roland Garros.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Venus Into Second Round
American Venus Williams (13) ousted Sybille Bammer 6-4, 6-3 to make the second round Monday at Roland Garros. In just her fourth tournament back from an injury, Williams was a little rusty but got the job done when she needed it most to pull out the straight set victory.
"Definitely not playing as well as I'm capable, but definitely moving up," Williams noted to reporters after making 33 unforced errors. "Just playing solid. Really mentally pretty good. Sometimes I lose a bit of clarity. That comes with a few more matches."
Williams led 4-2 in the first set before Bammer broke back to level it. However, Williams held and then closed out the set with another break. She was a perfect five-for-five on break chances and finished off Bammer in the second set.
Despite not having played her best, Williams still was fairly confident in her chances to go far.
"I always feel like [I can win] for sure," she pointed out.
"I think it's the truth. At this point, it's definitely round by round. That's the best way to take it, especially if you've been off a little."
Also moving into the second round was second seeded Belgian Kim Clijsters with a 6-0, 7-6 (4) triumph over Virginie Razzano.
"At the beginning I was allowed to step in but in the second set she started to play aggressive tennis and I was making too many unforced errors," said Clijsters.
Seventh seeded Swiss Patty Schnyder eliminated Michaella Krajicek 6-1, 6-2. Also advancing was sixth seeded Russian Elena Dementieva who defeated Martina Sucha 7-6 (3), 6-2.
Other seeds who moved onto Round 2 included Francesca Schiavone (9), Nathalie Dechy (21), Katarina Srebotnik (24) and Sofia Arvidsson (29).
There were two upsets on the day. Croat Karolina Sprem defeated 18th seeded Elena Likhovtseva 6-1, 6-1. Romanian Anda Perianu knocked out Czech Lucie Safarova (28) 6-1, 7-6 (7).
In her return from a season-ending injury in 2005, Aussie Alicia Molik also advanced with a 7-5, 7-6 (3) win over Italian Antonella Serra Zanetti.
"Definitely not playing as well as I'm capable, but definitely moving up," Williams noted to reporters after making 33 unforced errors. "Just playing solid. Really mentally pretty good. Sometimes I lose a bit of clarity. That comes with a few more matches."
Williams led 4-2 in the first set before Bammer broke back to level it. However, Williams held and then closed out the set with another break. She was a perfect five-for-five on break chances and finished off Bammer in the second set.
Despite not having played her best, Williams still was fairly confident in her chances to go far.
"I always feel like [I can win] for sure," she pointed out.
"I think it's the truth. At this point, it's definitely round by round. That's the best way to take it, especially if you've been off a little."
Also moving into the second round was second seeded Belgian Kim Clijsters with a 6-0, 7-6 (4) triumph over Virginie Razzano.
"At the beginning I was allowed to step in but in the second set she started to play aggressive tennis and I was making too many unforced errors," said Clijsters.
Seventh seeded Swiss Patty Schnyder eliminated Michaella Krajicek 6-1, 6-2. Also advancing was sixth seeded Russian Elena Dementieva who defeated Martina Sucha 7-6 (3), 6-2.
Other seeds who moved onto Round 2 included Francesca Schiavone (9), Nathalie Dechy (21), Katarina Srebotnik (24) and Sofia Arvidsson (29).
There were two upsets on the day. Croat Karolina Sprem defeated 18th seeded Elena Likhovtseva 6-1, 6-1. Romanian Anda Perianu knocked out Czech Lucie Safarova (28) 6-1, 7-6 (7).
In her return from a season-ending injury in 2005, Aussie Alicia Molik also advanced with a 7-5, 7-6 (3) win over Italian Antonella Serra Zanetti.
Nadal Advances, Gets Record
The record is now Rafael Nadal's. The defending French Open champion disposed of first round opponent Robin Soderling in straight sets 6-2, 7-5, 6-1 Monday at Roland Garros. It was Nadal's record breaking 54th consecutive win on clay, surpassing tennis legend Guillermo Vilas for the longest clay court streak in the Open Era.
With Vilas on hand at Court Philippe Chatrier, Nadal needed 128 minutes to advance. After making history, Vilas was part of an on court presentation honoring Nadal for his accomplishment. Vilas presented Nadal with a crystal memento of a Roland Garros clay court.
"He's [Nadal] a fantastic person. He's a friend," Vilas told reporters afterwards. "If I had to lose that record, I'm pleased it was losing to someone like that."
"Is very difficult," Nadal pointed out about his record. "A lot of tournaments, a lot of matches. It's very difficult. I am very happy for that. Is important for me to be in history."
Nadal's last loss on clay came over a year ago to Igor Andreev on April 27, 2005 at Valencia.
"Most important thing today is the win," Nadal said after overcoming a tough second set along with some rain and blustery conditions before finishing off Soderling. "First round is always tough. These conditions - best thing is the victory."
Nadal will next face American Kevin Kim, who moved on with a four set win over Julio Silva.
"He will inspire a new generation of players," Vilas said. "He is very good for the sport. It's a blessing to have a player like this in our sport."
Sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko moved on with a 7-5, 6-4, 6-4 victory over American Vince Spadea. Also advancing was eighth seeded American James Blake, who eliminated Paradorn Srichaphan 6-0, 6-4, 7-6 (3). Former '04 French Open champ Gaston Gaudio (10) was a 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 winner over Roko Karanusic.
Other seeds who were victorious included Radek Stepanek (11), Mario Ancic (12), Nicolas Kiefer (13), Tomas Berdych (20), Sebastien Grosjean (21), Juan Carlos Ferrero (24) and Dmitry Tursunov (31).
Jose Acasuso (26) also made Round 2 but needed two days to complete his match in outlasting Frenchman Fabrice Santoro in five 6-3, 6-1, 3-6, 1-6, 11-9. The final set took 97 minutes to complete. Acasuso finished with 79 winners while Santoro had 62. He converted 7-of-14 break points to Santoro's 6-of-11.
Another player who needed five sets to advance was Chilean Nicolas Massu (32). In a match which lasted four hours 25 minutes, Massu defeated Belgian Xavier Malisse 6-1, 7-5, 1-6, 4-6, 9-7. The final two sets took two hours 31 minutes including an hour 27-minute final set before Massu was victorious. How close was this match? Massu won just three more total points than Malisse- 169-166.
Frenchman Richard Gasquet was a straight set winner over Yeu-Tzuoo Wang to setup a second round meeting against third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian.
There was one upset victim on the men's side. Jarkko Nieminen (16) was trailing Raemon Sluiter 2-6, 6-7 (6), 1-2 before retiring.
With Vilas on hand at Court Philippe Chatrier, Nadal needed 128 minutes to advance. After making history, Vilas was part of an on court presentation honoring Nadal for his accomplishment. Vilas presented Nadal with a crystal memento of a Roland Garros clay court.
"He's [Nadal] a fantastic person. He's a friend," Vilas told reporters afterwards. "If I had to lose that record, I'm pleased it was losing to someone like that."
"Is very difficult," Nadal pointed out about his record. "A lot of tournaments, a lot of matches. It's very difficult. I am very happy for that. Is important for me to be in history."
Nadal's last loss on clay came over a year ago to Igor Andreev on April 27, 2005 at Valencia.
"Most important thing today is the win," Nadal said after overcoming a tough second set along with some rain and blustery conditions before finishing off Soderling. "First round is always tough. These conditions - best thing is the victory."
Nadal will next face American Kevin Kim, who moved on with a four set win over Julio Silva.
"He will inspire a new generation of players," Vilas said. "He is very good for the sport. It's a blessing to have a player like this in our sport."
Sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko moved on with a 7-5, 6-4, 6-4 victory over American Vince Spadea. Also advancing was eighth seeded American James Blake, who eliminated Paradorn Srichaphan 6-0, 6-4, 7-6 (3). Former '04 French Open champ Gaston Gaudio (10) was a 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 winner over Roko Karanusic.
Other seeds who were victorious included Radek Stepanek (11), Mario Ancic (12), Nicolas Kiefer (13), Tomas Berdych (20), Sebastien Grosjean (21), Juan Carlos Ferrero (24) and Dmitry Tursunov (31).
Jose Acasuso (26) also made Round 2 but needed two days to complete his match in outlasting Frenchman Fabrice Santoro in five 6-3, 6-1, 3-6, 1-6, 11-9. The final set took 97 minutes to complete. Acasuso finished with 79 winners while Santoro had 62. He converted 7-of-14 break points to Santoro's 6-of-11.
Another player who needed five sets to advance was Chilean Nicolas Massu (32). In a match which lasted four hours 25 minutes, Massu defeated Belgian Xavier Malisse 6-1, 7-5, 1-6, 4-6, 9-7. The final two sets took two hours 31 minutes including an hour 27-minute final set before Massu was victorious. How close was this match? Massu won just three more total points than Malisse- 169-166.
Frenchman Richard Gasquet was a straight set winner over Yeu-Tzuoo Wang to setup a second round meeting against third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian.
There was one upset victim on the men's side. Jarkko Nieminen (16) was trailing Raemon Sluiter 2-6, 6-7 (6), 1-2 before retiring.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Nadal Looks For Repeat In Paris, On Collision Course With Federer
Last year, Rafael Nadal won his first ever grand slam at the age of 19 to capture the French Open. In the process, he defeated world number one Roger Federer in a four set semifinal before besting Mariano Puerta in the final to become King of the clay.
After winning eight of his ATP high 11 2005 titles on the red surface, Nadal has followed it up by continuing to pile up victories on his favorite surface this year. Of his four titles so far, he's won three more on clay including an epic five set victory over Federer at Rome which lasted five hours.
Recently, he matched Guillermo Vilas' Open era record with his 53rd consecutive triumph on clay. If the second ranked Spaniard beats first round opponent Robin Soderling, he'll have the record.
However, that's not the goal for the soon to be 20-year-old who will attempt to successfully defend his crown in Roland Garros. Standing in the way could be Federer, who he's already beaten twice this year including at Dubai. Unlike most of Federer's chief competition, Nadal has won five of six career meetings entering the French Open. If they do meet, it will happen in what would be one of the most anticipated finals in recent history.
But first, each needs to get there. Here's a look at who could stand in the way:
BRACKET BREAKDOWN
Section One: This features top seeded Federer along with seventh seeded Spaniard Tommy Robredo, Mario Ancic (12), Nicolas Kiefer (13), American Robby Ginepri (17), Tomas Berdych (20), Jose Acasuso (26) and Chilean Nicolas Massu (32).
Potential Sleepers: French veteran Arnaud Clement could be a tricky first round opponent for Federer. His unorthodox style might make for an interesting match but Federer should get through unscratched. Look for Spaniard Albert Montanes to knock off the slumping Ginepri. Montanes could make some noise in the bottom half as too could French magician Fabrice Santoro. Santoro has a tough opponent in Acasuso but will have tons of support. Belgian Kristof Vliegen is another player that's worth keeping an eye on. The 23-year-old is having a breakout season which has seen his ranking climb to a career best 36 entering this tournament. He recently lost in a clay court final at Munich to Olivier Rochus but comes in playing well.
Who Should Advance: While there are other accomplished players in Federer's portion of the draw, he should get through. Look for a potential third round meeting with either Massu or Xavier Malisse. Either should test him just enough as he reaches the Round of 16 where familiar nemesis Kiefer could be waiting. But don't bank on it. Strange things happen on clay. Either way, Federer will be waiting in the quarterfinals for most likely two-time quarterfinalist Robredo. Expect him to get through the first two rounds without a problem before being challenged by Acasuso, Santoro or Vliegen. Robredo could face Ancic in the Round of 16 but that won't happen. Either way, he should setup an intriguing quarter against Federer.
The Pick: Federer could run into trouble against Robredo. This definitely won't be an easy match because Robredo is a solid player who can run down balls and also isn't afraid to come into net. However, Federer's penchant for coming up with the big shots when he needs it and will to win should be enough in four competitive sets to advance to the semifinals.
Section Two: This includes third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian, sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko, '04 French Open champ Gaston Gaudio (10), Jarkko Nieminen (16), Sebastien Grosjean (21), '03 French winner Juan Carlos Ferrero (24), Carlos Moya (30) and Dmitry Tursunov (31).
Potential Sleepers: Nalbandian doesn't have an easy draw. He'll face 21-year-old Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka in the opening round. Wawrinka made the third round in his French debut last year. If Nalbandian wins, he'll most likely meet Richard Gasquet. After a promising '05, the 19-year-old Frenchman has struggled winning just four of 14 matches this year. But he still is very capable and has the arsenal to give Nalbandian trouble. Tim Henman is also in that side of the bracket and a potential third round opponent but it depends on his back. Other dangerous players include Andrei Pavel, Mikhail Youzhny, American Paul Goldstein and Italian Potito Starace.
Who Should Advance: Despite two potential tough early rounds, Nalbandian should have enough to get through to the third round where he could meet either Tursunov or Henman. He should beat either to make the Round of 16. There he could face Nieminen or Grosjean. The bottom half could see an upset. While Davydenko is a solid player, he might have his hands full with Starace in Round 2. Moya will most likely be waiting in the third round. The former '98 champion is always formidable on clay. If Gaudio and Ferrero advance to the third round, the two former champs will meet. Look for Gaudio to make the Round of 16 where he could face either Davydenko or Moya.
The Pick: This is a tough field to call because it's possible that form won't hold. Nalbandian usually finds his way through at the majors but his bracket is top heavy. He should still make the Elite 8. Gaudio seems to have an easier path to the fourth round than Davydenko. If that match happens, it should be a tough baseline battle. I'll take Gaudio to advance and face Nalbandian in the quarters. On this surface, I like Gaudio to setup a semifinal showdown with Federer.
Section Three: This bracket features fourth seeded Croat Ivan Ljubicic, fifth seeded American Andy Roddick, Radek Stepanek (11), Spaniard David Ferrer (15), Thomas Johansson (18), Australian Open runner up Marcos Baghdatis (19), Belgian Olivier Rochus (27) and Fernando Verdasco (28).
Potential Sleepers: Julien Benneteau and Davide Sanguinetti both are capable of making some noise. But the player to watch could be Gilles Simon. The 21-year-old Frenchman is only entering his third slam. He's won 15 of 23 matches this year and most likely will play Ljubicic in the second round. He'll have tons of crowd support which could give it a Davis Cup feel. Other players who could win a couple of matches are Christophe Rochus and Juan Ignacio Chela. Both will have tough first round opponents. Rochus plays Johansson while Chela goes against Verdasco. Don't be surprised if they pull upsets throwing a wrench into this bracket.
Who Should Advance: With Roddick uncertain as to whether he'll even play his first round match against Alberto Martin due to a sore ankle, it's likely his side of the draw will open up. This has never been his best surface anyway. Look for Olivier Rochus to take advantage of it. The quick Belgian shotmaker is tough on clay and should reach the Round of 16. Expect seeds to fall by the wayside giving Rochus a clear path to the quarters. The bottom half is Ljubicic's to win or lose. But he'll be challenged by Simon and probably Verdasco. Still, he should make it to the fourth round. Expect Christophe Rochus to upset Johansson and setup a third round match against Ferrer. That would be a toss up. Either should have too much footspeed for Ljubicic.
The Pick: Olivier Rochus has always had a lot of talent and this is his chance to break through. In an all brother quarter, I like him to defeat Christophe in four sets, advancing to his first career slam semi.
Section Four: This includes defending champ and second seed Nadal, eighth seeded American James Blake, ninth seeded Chilean Fernando Gonzalez, Lleyton Hewitt (14), Dominik Hrbaty (22), German Tommy Haas (23), Frenchman Gael Monfils (25) and countryman Paul-Henri Mathieu (29).
Potential Sleepers: Thailand's Paradorn Srichaphan is a vet of the tour who's played somewhat better than his 11-12 record. He enters ranked 43rd and won't be an easy foe for Blake. British teen Andy Murray has struggled since firing his coach. However, he has a lot of game and sets up an intriguing first round against Monfils. Novak Djokovic is another player who could make some noise. If he advances into the second round, he'll meet the winner of Gonzalez or Marat Safin. Speaking of unpredictable. Since returning from knee surgery, the two-time slam winner has been up and down. He's capable of beating or losing to anyone. Czech Robin Vik gave Hewitt problems in the opening round at Melbourne. He has the game to make some noise.
Who Should Advance: Clearly, this is Nadal's bracket to win or lose. It's tailor made for him to cruise to the semis. Blake, who gives him problems on the hardcourts will be hardpressed to win more than a couple of rounds. Look for the top half to open up. If Monfils gets by Murray, he could make the Round of 16. Haas is the next best player in that section but after a blazing start, he's run into injuries. The clay doesn't suit his game. Gonzalez should get by Safin due to conditioning. If he plays Djokovic, that will be close. Nadal shouldn't have any problems making the Round of 16. In his half, Hewitt has been marred by injuries all season and isn't the same player. He could get bounced early. Look for Nadal to meet Hrbaty for a spot in the quarters.
The Pick: It's Nadal by a country mile. There just isn't much here to challenge him. His game is perfect for this surface and he'll most likely play an inexperienced Monfils in the elite eight. Nadal won't even break a sweat setting up a semi meeting against Olivier Rochus.
Semifinal Breakdown: In one semi, world number one Federer would play '04 French champ Gaudio. Gaudio is good on this surface because of his footspeed. The problem is Federer's one of the quickest players on tour and can elevate his game when needed. Gaudio should test him but fall in four sets. It would be Federer's first final at Roland Garros, giving him a chance to complete the Grand Slam by finally winning the French.
The other semifinal features defending champion Nadal against Rochus. Both are very quick but Nadal's size and strength should prove too much for the fiesty Rochus. I'll give Rochus one set because he fights extremely hard. But Nadal should prevail to setup the dream final everyone wants to see.
2006 French Open Champion: Rafael Nadal, Spain
Federer is the best player in the world but Nadal has a bit of a mental edge if this final unfolds. He's beaten Federer five of six times and even survived a couple of championship points in their five hour epic at Rome earlier this month before prevailing. On the line will be Federer's perfect slam final record (7-0) against Nadal's clay court win streak which would reach 59. It would be a classic battle of wills between the two strongest players. I like Nadal in five sets to win his second consecutive French Open and close the gap as the battle for Number 1 heats up this summer.
After winning eight of his ATP high 11 2005 titles on the red surface, Nadal has followed it up by continuing to pile up victories on his favorite surface this year. Of his four titles so far, he's won three more on clay including an epic five set victory over Federer at Rome which lasted five hours.
Recently, he matched Guillermo Vilas' Open era record with his 53rd consecutive triumph on clay. If the second ranked Spaniard beats first round opponent Robin Soderling, he'll have the record.
However, that's not the goal for the soon to be 20-year-old who will attempt to successfully defend his crown in Roland Garros. Standing in the way could be Federer, who he's already beaten twice this year including at Dubai. Unlike most of Federer's chief competition, Nadal has won five of six career meetings entering the French Open. If they do meet, it will happen in what would be one of the most anticipated finals in recent history.
But first, each needs to get there. Here's a look at who could stand in the way:
BRACKET BREAKDOWN
Section One: This features top seeded Federer along with seventh seeded Spaniard Tommy Robredo, Mario Ancic (12), Nicolas Kiefer (13), American Robby Ginepri (17), Tomas Berdych (20), Jose Acasuso (26) and Chilean Nicolas Massu (32).
Potential Sleepers: French veteran Arnaud Clement could be a tricky first round opponent for Federer. His unorthodox style might make for an interesting match but Federer should get through unscratched. Look for Spaniard Albert Montanes to knock off the slumping Ginepri. Montanes could make some noise in the bottom half as too could French magician Fabrice Santoro. Santoro has a tough opponent in Acasuso but will have tons of support. Belgian Kristof Vliegen is another player that's worth keeping an eye on. The 23-year-old is having a breakout season which has seen his ranking climb to a career best 36 entering this tournament. He recently lost in a clay court final at Munich to Olivier Rochus but comes in playing well.
Who Should Advance: While there are other accomplished players in Federer's portion of the draw, he should get through. Look for a potential third round meeting with either Massu or Xavier Malisse. Either should test him just enough as he reaches the Round of 16 where familiar nemesis Kiefer could be waiting. But don't bank on it. Strange things happen on clay. Either way, Federer will be waiting in the quarterfinals for most likely two-time quarterfinalist Robredo. Expect him to get through the first two rounds without a problem before being challenged by Acasuso, Santoro or Vliegen. Robredo could face Ancic in the Round of 16 but that won't happen. Either way, he should setup an intriguing quarter against Federer.
The Pick: Federer could run into trouble against Robredo. This definitely won't be an easy match because Robredo is a solid player who can run down balls and also isn't afraid to come into net. However, Federer's penchant for coming up with the big shots when he needs it and will to win should be enough in four competitive sets to advance to the semifinals.
Section Two: This includes third seeded Argentine David Nalbandian, sixth seeded Russian Nikolay Davydenko, '04 French Open champ Gaston Gaudio (10), Jarkko Nieminen (16), Sebastien Grosjean (21), '03 French winner Juan Carlos Ferrero (24), Carlos Moya (30) and Dmitry Tursunov (31).
Potential Sleepers: Nalbandian doesn't have an easy draw. He'll face 21-year-old Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka in the opening round. Wawrinka made the third round in his French debut last year. If Nalbandian wins, he'll most likely meet Richard Gasquet. After a promising '05, the 19-year-old Frenchman has struggled winning just four of 14 matches this year. But he still is very capable and has the arsenal to give Nalbandian trouble. Tim Henman is also in that side of the bracket and a potential third round opponent but it depends on his back. Other dangerous players include Andrei Pavel, Mikhail Youzhny, American Paul Goldstein and Italian Potito Starace.
Who Should Advance: Despite two potential tough early rounds, Nalbandian should have enough to get through to the third round where he could meet either Tursunov or Henman. He should beat either to make the Round of 16. There he could face Nieminen or Grosjean. The bottom half could see an upset. While Davydenko is a solid player, he might have his hands full with Starace in Round 2. Moya will most likely be waiting in the third round. The former '98 champion is always formidable on clay. If Gaudio and Ferrero advance to the third round, the two former champs will meet. Look for Gaudio to make the Round of 16 where he could face either Davydenko or Moya.
The Pick: This is a tough field to call because it's possible that form won't hold. Nalbandian usually finds his way through at the majors but his bracket is top heavy. He should still make the Elite 8. Gaudio seems to have an easier path to the fourth round than Davydenko. If that match happens, it should be a tough baseline battle. I'll take Gaudio to advance and face Nalbandian in the quarters. On this surface, I like Gaudio to setup a semifinal showdown with Federer.
Section Three: This bracket features fourth seeded Croat Ivan Ljubicic, fifth seeded American Andy Roddick, Radek Stepanek (11), Spaniard David Ferrer (15), Thomas Johansson (18), Australian Open runner up Marcos Baghdatis (19), Belgian Olivier Rochus (27) and Fernando Verdasco (28).
Potential Sleepers: Julien Benneteau and Davide Sanguinetti both are capable of making some noise. But the player to watch could be Gilles Simon. The 21-year-old Frenchman is only entering his third slam. He's won 15 of 23 matches this year and most likely will play Ljubicic in the second round. He'll have tons of crowd support which could give it a Davis Cup feel. Other players who could win a couple of matches are Christophe Rochus and Juan Ignacio Chela. Both will have tough first round opponents. Rochus plays Johansson while Chela goes against Verdasco. Don't be surprised if they pull upsets throwing a wrench into this bracket.
Who Should Advance: With Roddick uncertain as to whether he'll even play his first round match against Alberto Martin due to a sore ankle, it's likely his side of the draw will open up. This has never been his best surface anyway. Look for Olivier Rochus to take advantage of it. The quick Belgian shotmaker is tough on clay and should reach the Round of 16. Expect seeds to fall by the wayside giving Rochus a clear path to the quarters. The bottom half is Ljubicic's to win or lose. But he'll be challenged by Simon and probably Verdasco. Still, he should make it to the fourth round. Expect Christophe Rochus to upset Johansson and setup a third round match against Ferrer. That would be a toss up. Either should have too much footspeed for Ljubicic.
The Pick: Olivier Rochus has always had a lot of talent and this is his chance to break through. In an all brother quarter, I like him to defeat Christophe in four sets, advancing to his first career slam semi.
Section Four: This includes defending champ and second seed Nadal, eighth seeded American James Blake, ninth seeded Chilean Fernando Gonzalez, Lleyton Hewitt (14), Dominik Hrbaty (22), German Tommy Haas (23), Frenchman Gael Monfils (25) and countryman Paul-Henri Mathieu (29).
Potential Sleepers: Thailand's Paradorn Srichaphan is a vet of the tour who's played somewhat better than his 11-12 record. He enters ranked 43rd and won't be an easy foe for Blake. British teen Andy Murray has struggled since firing his coach. However, he has a lot of game and sets up an intriguing first round against Monfils. Novak Djokovic is another player who could make some noise. If he advances into the second round, he'll meet the winner of Gonzalez or Marat Safin. Speaking of unpredictable. Since returning from knee surgery, the two-time slam winner has been up and down. He's capable of beating or losing to anyone. Czech Robin Vik gave Hewitt problems in the opening round at Melbourne. He has the game to make some noise.
Who Should Advance: Clearly, this is Nadal's bracket to win or lose. It's tailor made for him to cruise to the semis. Blake, who gives him problems on the hardcourts will be hardpressed to win more than a couple of rounds. Look for the top half to open up. If Monfils gets by Murray, he could make the Round of 16. Haas is the next best player in that section but after a blazing start, he's run into injuries. The clay doesn't suit his game. Gonzalez should get by Safin due to conditioning. If he plays Djokovic, that will be close. Nadal shouldn't have any problems making the Round of 16. In his half, Hewitt has been marred by injuries all season and isn't the same player. He could get bounced early. Look for Nadal to meet Hrbaty for a spot in the quarters.
The Pick: It's Nadal by a country mile. There just isn't much here to challenge him. His game is perfect for this surface and he'll most likely play an inexperienced Monfils in the elite eight. Nadal won't even break a sweat setting up a semi meeting against Olivier Rochus.
Semifinal Breakdown: In one semi, world number one Federer would play '04 French champ Gaudio. Gaudio is good on this surface because of his footspeed. The problem is Federer's one of the quickest players on tour and can elevate his game when needed. Gaudio should test him but fall in four sets. It would be Federer's first final at Roland Garros, giving him a chance to complete the Grand Slam by finally winning the French.
The other semifinal features defending champion Nadal against Rochus. Both are very quick but Nadal's size and strength should prove too much for the fiesty Rochus. I'll give Rochus one set because he fights extremely hard. But Nadal should prevail to setup the dream final everyone wants to see.
2006 French Open Champion: Rafael Nadal, Spain
Federer is the best player in the world but Nadal has a bit of a mental edge if this final unfolds. He's beaten Federer five of six times and even survived a couple of championship points in their five hour epic at Rome earlier this month before prevailing. On the line will be Federer's perfect slam final record (7-0) against Nadal's clay court win streak which would reach 59. It would be a classic battle of wills between the two strongest players. I like Nadal in five sets to win his second consecutive French Open and close the gap as the battle for Number 1 heats up this summer.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Canes Finish Off Devils, Advance to Eastern Conference Final
Ultimately, they ran out of gas. The Devils saw their miraculous season come to an end- falling to the Hurricanes 4-1 in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semis at a capacity RBC Center Sunday night. The Canes advanced to their second Eastern Conference Final in four years and will meet the Buffalo Sabres.
A night after fighting off elimination with a convincing 5-1 win in Game Four, the Devils couldn't maintain their level against a quicker Carolina team. The fight was there but the execution wasn't. That might explain how a game they led 57 seconds in thanks to a Brian Gionta tally turned around.
"You sit back a little bit on your heels and wait and see what's going on," Martin Brodeur told the AP. "The crowd's able to turn around their team and tweak them up by one little hit, one little save on net. It's just an opportunity missed. That's the bottom line."
Sharp from the outset, the Devils went ahead thanks to a fortunate bounce. Rookie Zach Parise's centering pass deflected off Canes' defenseman Mike Commodore right to Gionta, who wristed one upstairs for his first of the series.
The game swung due to special teams. An Achilles heel throughout this series, the Devils couldn't take advantage of four first period power plays. They had two golden opportunities on the PP to extend their lead but couldn't find a way to beat Cam Ward, which cameback to haunt them.
"When you get the opportunities that we had there, you can take the momentum right out of the game," GM/Coach Lou Lamoriello pointed out. "That's what happens in these types of games. We just didn't get it done."
Off a faceoff win in the Devils' zone, the Canes tied the score on a left point blast from Frantisek Kaberle. Matt Cullen won the draw and Mark Recchi fed Kaberle, whose slapshot deflected off Paul Martin past Brodeur at 8:39.
The Devils had two more chances on the man-advantage to reclaim the lead. But the continued failure to connect doomed them. Their best chance came on a Jay Pandolfo breakaway at even strength but he ran into tough luck when his shot rang off the crossbar.
With the Canes continuing to come on, Brodeur was forced to stop Eric Staal on a breakaway with under two minutes left. Staal broke in from a sharp angle and tried to deke but Brodeur's pokecheck denied him to keep it tied.
Remarkably, the Devils were given a fifth straight power play early in the second. But by then, the momentum had already swung. The best chance came off a Canes' stick shorthanded but Brodeur thwarted Bret Hedican's bid.
All it took was one for Carolina to magnify the difference between the teams in this series. With David Hale in the box for cross checking, the Canes needed 50 seconds to take the lead. Off a three-on-two rush, Cory Stillman converted a Justin Williams backhand feed at the goalmouth for his fourth to give Carolina its first lead at 14:20. It was the Canes' ninth PPG of the series. In the Devils' lone win, they scored two of their three PPGs and also registered a SHG. Overall, they were outscored 9-4 (9-1 in losses) on special teams.
"It was great that we finally got a power play," Carolina captain Rod Brind'Amour said. "You don't see it very often, where we score on the rush, but it was nice that we were able to tic-tac-toe it around."
Shortly after, the Canes assumed complete control territorially. Dominating play, they outshot the Devils 16-3 in the period. At one point, the Devils held an 11-2 edge. In a stunning turnaround, they were outshot 29-7 the rest of the way.
By the end of the second, Brodeur was the only reason they were still alive. He stopped Staal twice on a wraparound to give his team a chance in the third.
With their playoff lives on the line, they couldn't get through Carolina's defense to get back in it- managing only four shots. The Canes wouldn't allow them. Forechecking aggressively, they erased any hopes for a comeback when Ray Whitney notched his third goal of the series to increase the deficit to 3-1 with 12:38 remaining. Off a cycle, Whitney took a no-look Doug Weight backhand pass and one-timed it past a sprawling Brodeur.
With the desperation growing, the Devils activated their D but couldn't get that one goal to make things interesting. Still, the outcome was delayed a few minutes due to the arena lights going out thanks to a storm in the area. Once action resumed, Brodeur was pulled for an extra attacker. Staal's empty netter sealed it with 1:28 left.
Outplaying his idol, Ward turned aside 17 of 18 in a routine night while Brodeur finished with 27 saves. Afterwards, the goalie he looked up to gave him words of encouragment during the traditional handshake.
"He just wished me well and said, 'Go all the way,' and I just expressed to him that, in my eyes, he's the best," Ward said.
"I think we deserved it," Brind'Amour said. "We were the better team, we felt it right from Game 1, and now we're moving on."
Notes: It was the Devils' 200th postseason game. They are 112-88 with three Stanley Cups. ... The loss was the Devils' sixth straight postseason defeat at Raleigh dating back to 2002. ... Canes improved to 2-1 against the Devils in playoff series. ... In perhaps his final career game, defenseman Tommy Albelin grabbed the final puck. He'll turn 42 next week. ... Stillman left the game in the third due to a leg injury sustained when he collided with Brad Lukowich. His status is uncertain for Game One of the ECF, which will start next weekend.
A night after fighting off elimination with a convincing 5-1 win in Game Four, the Devils couldn't maintain their level against a quicker Carolina team. The fight was there but the execution wasn't. That might explain how a game they led 57 seconds in thanks to a Brian Gionta tally turned around.
"You sit back a little bit on your heels and wait and see what's going on," Martin Brodeur told the AP. "The crowd's able to turn around their team and tweak them up by one little hit, one little save on net. It's just an opportunity missed. That's the bottom line."
Sharp from the outset, the Devils went ahead thanks to a fortunate bounce. Rookie Zach Parise's centering pass deflected off Canes' defenseman Mike Commodore right to Gionta, who wristed one upstairs for his first of the series.
The game swung due to special teams. An Achilles heel throughout this series, the Devils couldn't take advantage of four first period power plays. They had two golden opportunities on the PP to extend their lead but couldn't find a way to beat Cam Ward, which cameback to haunt them.
"When you get the opportunities that we had there, you can take the momentum right out of the game," GM/Coach Lou Lamoriello pointed out. "That's what happens in these types of games. We just didn't get it done."
Off a faceoff win in the Devils' zone, the Canes tied the score on a left point blast from Frantisek Kaberle. Matt Cullen won the draw and Mark Recchi fed Kaberle, whose slapshot deflected off Paul Martin past Brodeur at 8:39.
The Devils had two more chances on the man-advantage to reclaim the lead. But the continued failure to connect doomed them. Their best chance came on a Jay Pandolfo breakaway at even strength but he ran into tough luck when his shot rang off the crossbar.
With the Canes continuing to come on, Brodeur was forced to stop Eric Staal on a breakaway with under two minutes left. Staal broke in from a sharp angle and tried to deke but Brodeur's pokecheck denied him to keep it tied.
Remarkably, the Devils were given a fifth straight power play early in the second. But by then, the momentum had already swung. The best chance came off a Canes' stick shorthanded but Brodeur thwarted Bret Hedican's bid.
All it took was one for Carolina to magnify the difference between the teams in this series. With David Hale in the box for cross checking, the Canes needed 50 seconds to take the lead. Off a three-on-two rush, Cory Stillman converted a Justin Williams backhand feed at the goalmouth for his fourth to give Carolina its first lead at 14:20. It was the Canes' ninth PPG of the series. In the Devils' lone win, they scored two of their three PPGs and also registered a SHG. Overall, they were outscored 9-4 (9-1 in losses) on special teams.
"It was great that we finally got a power play," Carolina captain Rod Brind'Amour said. "You don't see it very often, where we score on the rush, but it was nice that we were able to tic-tac-toe it around."
Shortly after, the Canes assumed complete control territorially. Dominating play, they outshot the Devils 16-3 in the period. At one point, the Devils held an 11-2 edge. In a stunning turnaround, they were outshot 29-7 the rest of the way.
By the end of the second, Brodeur was the only reason they were still alive. He stopped Staal twice on a wraparound to give his team a chance in the third.
With their playoff lives on the line, they couldn't get through Carolina's defense to get back in it- managing only four shots. The Canes wouldn't allow them. Forechecking aggressively, they erased any hopes for a comeback when Ray Whitney notched his third goal of the series to increase the deficit to 3-1 with 12:38 remaining. Off a cycle, Whitney took a no-look Doug Weight backhand pass and one-timed it past a sprawling Brodeur.
With the desperation growing, the Devils activated their D but couldn't get that one goal to make things interesting. Still, the outcome was delayed a few minutes due to the arena lights going out thanks to a storm in the area. Once action resumed, Brodeur was pulled for an extra attacker. Staal's empty netter sealed it with 1:28 left.
Outplaying his idol, Ward turned aside 17 of 18 in a routine night while Brodeur finished with 27 saves. Afterwards, the goalie he looked up to gave him words of encouragment during the traditional handshake.
"He just wished me well and said, 'Go all the way,' and I just expressed to him that, in my eyes, he's the best," Ward said.
"I think we deserved it," Brind'Amour said. "We were the better team, we felt it right from Game 1, and now we're moving on."
Notes: It was the Devils' 200th postseason game. They are 112-88 with three Stanley Cups. ... The loss was the Devils' sixth straight postseason defeat at Raleigh dating back to 2002. ... Canes improved to 2-1 against the Devils in playoff series. ... In perhaps his final career game, defenseman Tommy Albelin grabbed the final puck. He'll turn 42 next week. ... Stillman left the game in the third due to a leg injury sustained when he collided with Brad Lukowich. His status is uncertain for Game One of the ECF, which will start next weekend.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Devils Avoid Elimination, Extend Series
Apparently, they weren't ready for the season to end. Facing the prospect of a sweep, the Devils fought back valiantly in a blowout 5-1 Game Four win over the Hurricanes at Continental Airlines Arena Saturday.
They're still alive in this best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semifinal which continues later tonight in a quick turnaround at Carolina for Game Five.
"We don't really have time to enjoy this," Game Four hero Scott Gomez told the AP.
"The common goal is we want to come back to Jersey. That's where we're going to start. We want to get another game here, and it just keeps getting harder."
Gomez' two first period power play goals sparked his team to their most dominant period of this series- outscoring the Canes 3-0 and outshooting them 16-7.
With their backs against the wall, the tone was set early by much maligned goalie Martin Brodeur. Harshly criticized throughout the first three games, he was much sharper in halting an early Canes' onslaught during the opening minute. An early stop an Eric Staal deflection set the tone.
The three-time Stanley Cup winner made 19 saves to move into sole possession of third place on the NHL career postseason wins list with his 89th while starting in a record 141st straight game.
"We have to have the attitude that nothing is going to faze us," Brodeur said. "That's how you get in people's heads, when you have success and don't seem happy about it. For us, there is never satisfaction until the end prize is there."
It didn't take long for the Devils to grab the lead. On a power play Gomez drew, he was the beneficiary of a fortuitous bounce. Just six seconds into the man-advantage, Gomez' centering pass for Brian Gionta deflected off a Canes' defenseman to put them ahead at 1:58.
Having struggled mightily in the series on special teams, the Devils continued to turn the tide to go up two when Jay Pandolfo tallied shorthanded at 11:02. John Madden intercepted a Ray Whitney pass at the point and broke in two-on-one with Pandolfo before setting him up. It was Pandolfo's first goal of this postseason and the Devils' fourth SHG.
Finally assuming command, the Devils began to dominate the Canes. Playing very physical, they hit them early and often, continuing to control the action.
When Frantisek Kaberle was sent to the box for hooking, the Devils made him pay on another lucky bounce. This time, Jamie Langenbrunner's one-timer caromed off Gomez past Cam Ward to give them a 3-0 lead with one minute left.
"It's definitely a good feeling," Madden said. "Maybe that's the bounces we needed to turn this thing around and get going."
"They got some bounces to start and then they really rode the wave," Canes' center Doug Weight said. "It was a tough game to come back after giving up three goals."
Ward was attempting to become the first ever goalie to win his first eight playoff starts. However, the rookie netminder was chased by Sergei Brylin only 44 seconds into the second. Taking a pass from Patrik Elias, Brylin came in and beat Ward to put the Devils up 4-0.
John Madden greeted Carolina backup Martin Gerber with his first goal of the series 3:39 later to make it a five goal cushion. It was Madden's fourth of the postseason.
Mark Recchi broke up Brodeur's bid for his 22nd career playoff shutout to conclude the scoring at 11:04.
"Hopefully we're not satisfied with not getting swept," Brodeur pointed out.
"I think that's the drawback for doing this but we definitely have to get a good performance and make these guys make errors like they did today."
Notes: Right wing Viktor Kozlov replaced an injured Grant Marshall to skate for the second time in the series. ... Veteran defenseman Tommy Albelin took the place of a banged up Richard Matvichuk. Albelin will turn 42 next week. ... Canes' left wing Andrew Ladd dressed in place of Josef Vasicek. ... After being outscored 8-1 on special teams during the first three games, the Devils went 3-0 on them in Game 4. They were 2-for-11 on the PP and a perfect 4-for-4 on the PK with their first SHG of the series.
They're still alive in this best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semifinal which continues later tonight in a quick turnaround at Carolina for Game Five.
"We don't really have time to enjoy this," Game Four hero Scott Gomez told the AP.
"The common goal is we want to come back to Jersey. That's where we're going to start. We want to get another game here, and it just keeps getting harder."
Gomez' two first period power play goals sparked his team to their most dominant period of this series- outscoring the Canes 3-0 and outshooting them 16-7.
With their backs against the wall, the tone was set early by much maligned goalie Martin Brodeur. Harshly criticized throughout the first three games, he was much sharper in halting an early Canes' onslaught during the opening minute. An early stop an Eric Staal deflection set the tone.
The three-time Stanley Cup winner made 19 saves to move into sole possession of third place on the NHL career postseason wins list with his 89th while starting in a record 141st straight game.
"We have to have the attitude that nothing is going to faze us," Brodeur said. "That's how you get in people's heads, when you have success and don't seem happy about it. For us, there is never satisfaction until the end prize is there."
It didn't take long for the Devils to grab the lead. On a power play Gomez drew, he was the beneficiary of a fortuitous bounce. Just six seconds into the man-advantage, Gomez' centering pass for Brian Gionta deflected off a Canes' defenseman to put them ahead at 1:58.
Having struggled mightily in the series on special teams, the Devils continued to turn the tide to go up two when Jay Pandolfo tallied shorthanded at 11:02. John Madden intercepted a Ray Whitney pass at the point and broke in two-on-one with Pandolfo before setting him up. It was Pandolfo's first goal of this postseason and the Devils' fourth SHG.
Finally assuming command, the Devils began to dominate the Canes. Playing very physical, they hit them early and often, continuing to control the action.
When Frantisek Kaberle was sent to the box for hooking, the Devils made him pay on another lucky bounce. This time, Jamie Langenbrunner's one-timer caromed off Gomez past Cam Ward to give them a 3-0 lead with one minute left.
"It's definitely a good feeling," Madden said. "Maybe that's the bounces we needed to turn this thing around and get going."
"They got some bounces to start and then they really rode the wave," Canes' center Doug Weight said. "It was a tough game to come back after giving up three goals."
Ward was attempting to become the first ever goalie to win his first eight playoff starts. However, the rookie netminder was chased by Sergei Brylin only 44 seconds into the second. Taking a pass from Patrik Elias, Brylin came in and beat Ward to put the Devils up 4-0.
John Madden greeted Carolina backup Martin Gerber with his first goal of the series 3:39 later to make it a five goal cushion. It was Madden's fourth of the postseason.
Mark Recchi broke up Brodeur's bid for his 22nd career playoff shutout to conclude the scoring at 11:04.
"Hopefully we're not satisfied with not getting swept," Brodeur pointed out.
"I think that's the drawback for doing this but we definitely have to get a good performance and make these guys make errors like they did today."
Notes: Right wing Viktor Kozlov replaced an injured Grant Marshall to skate for the second time in the series. ... Veteran defenseman Tommy Albelin took the place of a banged up Richard Matvichuk. Albelin will turn 42 next week. ... Canes' left wing Andrew Ladd dressed in place of Josef Vasicek. ... After being outscored 8-1 on special teams during the first three games, the Devils went 3-0 on them in Game 4. They were 2-for-11 on the PP and a perfect 4-for-4 on the PK with their first SHG of the series.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Canes Put Devils On Brink
They're going to need another streak to stay alive. That's what the Devils are facing after falling to the Hurricanes 3-2 in Game Three at Continental Airlines Arena Wednesday night. The loss was their third straight and put them on the brink of elimination- facing the unenviable task of needing to comeback from 0-3 down in this Eastern Conference Semifinal series.
"When you lose a game like this, at this stage to put yourselves three down, you don't feel good," GM/Coach Lou Lamoriello expressed to the AP.
Only twice in NHL history have teams ('42 Leafs, '75 Islanders) rallied from such a deficit. Most recently, the '04 Red Sox cameback from three down to beat the Yankees in the ALCS. That along with the Devils' recent 15-game win streak before this slide are things to draw on.
"Sometimes there is a lot to be said and sometimes you really don't have to say anything, because we all know the situation we're in and what we have to do," emphasized Patrik Elias.
In their playoff history, the Devils have never been swept. In the '93 Patrick Division Semifinals, they forced a fifth game against Pittsburgh before losing in the same situation. They'll try to avoid a sweep Saturday and extend this series back to Carolina for a Game Five.
"The goal right now is to get back to Carolina. Nobody wants the season to end," Scott Gomez said. "Stranger things have happened in sports."
To keep the season alive, the Devils must be better on special teams. Unlike their opening round sweep of the Rangers in which they dominated, the Devils have been outplayed by the pesky Canes. Carolina entered last night having connected on six power plays to the Devils' none. Unfortunately for New Jersey, that disturbing trend continued with Carolina converting twice more on the man-advantage to just once for the Devils.
After Elias connected for the Devils' first PPG of the series to tie the score at two 8:45 into the second, a loss of discipline would stall their momentum and ultimately cost them the game. After Colin White and Matt Cullen traded minors 18 seconds apart, Jamie Langenbrunner took an unnecessary highsticking double minor late in the period.
It only took 1:04 for the Canes to capitalize. They did so with a bit of luck to go ahead. On a tricky double deflection of an Eric Staal point shot which went off Sergei Brylin's stick, Rod Brind'Amour's redirect between his skates snuck through to give the Canes the lead with 1:01 remaining. It was his second goal of the series (both power play).
"I wasn't trying to do anything special, just change direction and hopefully it goes in," Brind'Amour said. "That's pretty much what happened."
"You have to find a way to stop those bounces and take over the game, and not let them get those opportunities," John Madden said.
Despite outshooting Carolina 15-7 in arguably their best period of the series, the Devils trailed entering the third.
They would get two chances on the PP to tie the game but couldn't cash either in. The best opportunity was an Elias one-timer from the point which went off the crossbar. It was the closest they came to tying it.
They couldn't break through a rugged Carolina D which made Cam Ward's life easy. In joining Boston's Tiny Thompson as just the second goalie to win his first seven postseason starts, the 22-year-old rookie netminder only needed to stop seven Devils' third period shots en route to a 28 save performance.
It didn't start out badly. For the second game in a row, the Devils took the lead early on thanks to Brylin. Taking a Langenbrunner feed which Carolina forward Ray Whitney overskated, he beat Ward five-hole to put them in front at 2:57.
But momentum would prove to be shortlived. Just 5:19 later, Cullen surprised Brodeur with a backhand for a PPG to tie it. The goal seemed to deflate the Devils. Less than two minutes later, Justin Williams intercepted a Richard Matvichuk pass and fired a wrister from the high slot past Brodeur to put the Canes ahead.
Notes: Taking his third straight loss, Brodeur finished with 21 saves. ... After missing the last five games with a groin injury, White returned to the lineup replacing Ken Klee on the blueline. In 19:54, he had four hits and five blocked shots. ... Devils outhit the Canes 34-15. ... In a losing effort, Elias had a goal and assist. His 14 points (6-8-14) lead the postseason.
"When you lose a game like this, at this stage to put yourselves three down, you don't feel good," GM/Coach Lou Lamoriello expressed to the AP.
Only twice in NHL history have teams ('42 Leafs, '75 Islanders) rallied from such a deficit. Most recently, the '04 Red Sox cameback from three down to beat the Yankees in the ALCS. That along with the Devils' recent 15-game win streak before this slide are things to draw on.
"Sometimes there is a lot to be said and sometimes you really don't have to say anything, because we all know the situation we're in and what we have to do," emphasized Patrik Elias.
In their playoff history, the Devils have never been swept. In the '93 Patrick Division Semifinals, they forced a fifth game against Pittsburgh before losing in the same situation. They'll try to avoid a sweep Saturday and extend this series back to Carolina for a Game Five.
"The goal right now is to get back to Carolina. Nobody wants the season to end," Scott Gomez said. "Stranger things have happened in sports."
To keep the season alive, the Devils must be better on special teams. Unlike their opening round sweep of the Rangers in which they dominated, the Devils have been outplayed by the pesky Canes. Carolina entered last night having connected on six power plays to the Devils' none. Unfortunately for New Jersey, that disturbing trend continued with Carolina converting twice more on the man-advantage to just once for the Devils.
After Elias connected for the Devils' first PPG of the series to tie the score at two 8:45 into the second, a loss of discipline would stall their momentum and ultimately cost them the game. After Colin White and Matt Cullen traded minors 18 seconds apart, Jamie Langenbrunner took an unnecessary highsticking double minor late in the period.
It only took 1:04 for the Canes to capitalize. They did so with a bit of luck to go ahead. On a tricky double deflection of an Eric Staal point shot which went off Sergei Brylin's stick, Rod Brind'Amour's redirect between his skates snuck through to give the Canes the lead with 1:01 remaining. It was his second goal of the series (both power play).
"I wasn't trying to do anything special, just change direction and hopefully it goes in," Brind'Amour said. "That's pretty much what happened."
"You have to find a way to stop those bounces and take over the game, and not let them get those opportunities," John Madden said.
Despite outshooting Carolina 15-7 in arguably their best period of the series, the Devils trailed entering the third.
They would get two chances on the PP to tie the game but couldn't cash either in. The best opportunity was an Elias one-timer from the point which went off the crossbar. It was the closest they came to tying it.
They couldn't break through a rugged Carolina D which made Cam Ward's life easy. In joining Boston's Tiny Thompson as just the second goalie to win his first seven postseason starts, the 22-year-old rookie netminder only needed to stop seven Devils' third period shots en route to a 28 save performance.
It didn't start out badly. For the second game in a row, the Devils took the lead early on thanks to Brylin. Taking a Langenbrunner feed which Carolina forward Ray Whitney overskated, he beat Ward five-hole to put them in front at 2:57.
But momentum would prove to be shortlived. Just 5:19 later, Cullen surprised Brodeur with a backhand for a PPG to tie it. The goal seemed to deflate the Devils. Less than two minutes later, Justin Williams intercepted a Richard Matvichuk pass and fired a wrister from the high slot past Brodeur to put the Canes ahead.
Notes: Taking his third straight loss, Brodeur finished with 21 saves. ... After missing the last five games with a groin injury, White returned to the lineup replacing Ken Klee on the blueline. In 19:54, he had four hits and five blocked shots. ... Devils outhit the Canes 34-15. ... In a losing effort, Elias had a goal and assist. His 14 points (6-8-14) lead the postseason.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Canes Stun Devils In OT, Lead Series 2-0
They had a split in their hands but lost it in stunning fashion. The Devils will have to forget how close they were to evening this best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semifinal series when it resumes in East Rutherford Wednesday.
The Hurricanes cameback to shock the Devils 3-2 in overtime to take Game Two at RBC Center Monday night. It was their fifth straight home postseason win against the Devils dating back to 2002. By holding serve, they put the Devils in a precarious position of having to comeback from 0-2 down. In NHL playoff history, teams that dropped the first two games have only comeback to win 13.4 percent (36 of 268) of the time.
In their postseason history, the Devils have comeback to win a series once (1-3) when falling into this predicament- beating Boston in the same round 12 years ago by winning the next four. They've lost their last two including once to Carolina four years earlier. They'll try to turn the tables on the Canes starting in Game Three.
"These things happen, and right now, you can't dwell on it," GM and Coach Lou Lamoriello expressed to the AP. "This is the playoffs, and you have to win four games."
It didn't start badly. Unlike Game One where nothing went right, the Devils came out sharper and outshot the Canes 14-8 in the first period. Early on, they went ahead thanks to some nifty passwork. Moving the puck well, Brian Rafalski and Patrik Elias teamed up to setup a wide open Jamie Langenbrunner in front for his third goal of the postseason to give them the lead 6:20 in.
In control, they nearly had a two-goal lead when Zach Parise rebounded a Ken Klee shot past Cam Ward but it was waived off due to goalie interference on Scott Gomez.
The tide would turn on another unfortunate break for the Devils in the second. Patrik Elias nearly made it 2-0 but his one-timer from the point sailed harmlessly off the post.
Another momentum swing came when Ward denied Brian Gionta on the doorstep with 5:34 left. Only down one, the Canes began to carry play and soon would draw a power play of their own to knot the score.
With Richard Matvichuk off for holding, Carolina's special teams came through when Mark Recchi finished off a passing play for his second at 18:18. Off a three-on-two rush, Doug Weight fed a cutting Ray Whitney, who quickly slipped a pass to Recchi in front for a deflection past a sprawling Martin Brodeur.
After outshooting the Devils 12-4 in the second, the Canes continued to press for the go-ahead goal in a third period onslaught. Peppering Brodeur from every conceivable angle, they couldn't beat the Devils' netminder who was pulled in Game One after allowing six. Making his playoff record 139th consecutive start, Brodeur was brilliant stopping the first 14 shots, giving his team a chance to steal the game. His biggest saves came on Justin Williams and Rod Brind'Amour with under 10 minutes to play. After stopping Williams, he dove across to thwart Brind'Amour on the rebound.
Despite being outplayed, the Devils looked to have the game won in the final minute. When Scott Gomez redirected a Zach Parise shot to put the Devils up 3-2 with 21 seconds left, it seemed over.
Not so fast. Instead, the Hurricanes rallied to tie the game in the final frantic seconds. Off a clean John Madden win, the puck went into the Devils' end where Brad Lukowich was forced into a turnover by Justin Williams. With Ward on the bench for an extra attacker, Williams twice outworked Devils for the puck along the boards to setup Eric Staal for the tying goal with just three seconds to go. After a Cory Stillman one-timer failed, Williams backhanded a pass to Staal in front, who one-timed his fourth thru Brodeur's waffle.
"That's the way we've been all year, we're a no-quit team," Staal said. "It was a good job by the guys continuing to battle, even though it was kind of an unlucky goal against us there. We kept with it."
"It's over and we've got to move on," Gomez pointed out. "You've got to let go of it right away. It's kind of like a freak accident. But give them credit. They stayed in there the whole time."
It didn't take long for the Canes to end it. Carolina defenseman Niclas Wallin won it just 3:09 into sudden death. During a four-on-four, he took advantage of a fortunate break.
Briefly after the Devils misconnected on a three-on-one, defenseman Ken Klee turned over the puck in the neutral zone. Brind'Amour sprung Wallin who broke in on Brodeur. As he went to deke, the puck deflected off a sliding Paul Martin back to Wallin and trickled off his skate past Brodeur. After a video review upstairs, the goal counted to dash the Devils' hopes.
"I don't know," Wallin said of the lucky bounce. "But I'll take it."
In his five-year NHL career, Wallin has scored 12 goals during the regular season. Astonishingly, he now has three OT winners in the playoffs.
"Everybody can get the puck to the net, that's what the playoffs are about," he added. "Call me the secret weapon."
"We've got to go back and try to win our games at home," Brodeur said after making 35 saves. "We played pretty well but just didn't the bounces there at the end. That's how it goes."
Notes: Devils' defenseman Colin White sat out his fifth game in a row with a groin injury. His status remains uncertain for Game Three. ... By making 21 saves en route to the victory, Carolina rookie Cam Ward became only the third NHL goalie to win his first six postseason starts, tying Anaheim's Jean-Sebastien Giguere (2003) and Boston's Tiny Thompson (1929-30). ... Carolina defenseman Aaron Ward missed a portion of the second period due to taking a puck off the forehead, drawing blood. ... Brodeur is now 8-19 for his playoff career in OT. ... Langenbrunner finished with a goal and assist.
The Hurricanes cameback to shock the Devils 3-2 in overtime to take Game Two at RBC Center Monday night. It was their fifth straight home postseason win against the Devils dating back to 2002. By holding serve, they put the Devils in a precarious position of having to comeback from 0-2 down. In NHL playoff history, teams that dropped the first two games have only comeback to win 13.4 percent (36 of 268) of the time.
In their postseason history, the Devils have comeback to win a series once (1-3) when falling into this predicament- beating Boston in the same round 12 years ago by winning the next four. They've lost their last two including once to Carolina four years earlier. They'll try to turn the tables on the Canes starting in Game Three.
"These things happen, and right now, you can't dwell on it," GM and Coach Lou Lamoriello expressed to the AP. "This is the playoffs, and you have to win four games."
It didn't start badly. Unlike Game One where nothing went right, the Devils came out sharper and outshot the Canes 14-8 in the first period. Early on, they went ahead thanks to some nifty passwork. Moving the puck well, Brian Rafalski and Patrik Elias teamed up to setup a wide open Jamie Langenbrunner in front for his third goal of the postseason to give them the lead 6:20 in.
In control, they nearly had a two-goal lead when Zach Parise rebounded a Ken Klee shot past Cam Ward but it was waived off due to goalie interference on Scott Gomez.
The tide would turn on another unfortunate break for the Devils in the second. Patrik Elias nearly made it 2-0 but his one-timer from the point sailed harmlessly off the post.
Another momentum swing came when Ward denied Brian Gionta on the doorstep with 5:34 left. Only down one, the Canes began to carry play and soon would draw a power play of their own to knot the score.
With Richard Matvichuk off for holding, Carolina's special teams came through when Mark Recchi finished off a passing play for his second at 18:18. Off a three-on-two rush, Doug Weight fed a cutting Ray Whitney, who quickly slipped a pass to Recchi in front for a deflection past a sprawling Martin Brodeur.
After outshooting the Devils 12-4 in the second, the Canes continued to press for the go-ahead goal in a third period onslaught. Peppering Brodeur from every conceivable angle, they couldn't beat the Devils' netminder who was pulled in Game One after allowing six. Making his playoff record 139th consecutive start, Brodeur was brilliant stopping the first 14 shots, giving his team a chance to steal the game. His biggest saves came on Justin Williams and Rod Brind'Amour with under 10 minutes to play. After stopping Williams, he dove across to thwart Brind'Amour on the rebound.
Despite being outplayed, the Devils looked to have the game won in the final minute. When Scott Gomez redirected a Zach Parise shot to put the Devils up 3-2 with 21 seconds left, it seemed over.
Not so fast. Instead, the Hurricanes rallied to tie the game in the final frantic seconds. Off a clean John Madden win, the puck went into the Devils' end where Brad Lukowich was forced into a turnover by Justin Williams. With Ward on the bench for an extra attacker, Williams twice outworked Devils for the puck along the boards to setup Eric Staal for the tying goal with just three seconds to go. After a Cory Stillman one-timer failed, Williams backhanded a pass to Staal in front, who one-timed his fourth thru Brodeur's waffle.
"That's the way we've been all year, we're a no-quit team," Staal said. "It was a good job by the guys continuing to battle, even though it was kind of an unlucky goal against us there. We kept with it."
"It's over and we've got to move on," Gomez pointed out. "You've got to let go of it right away. It's kind of like a freak accident. But give them credit. They stayed in there the whole time."
It didn't take long for the Canes to end it. Carolina defenseman Niclas Wallin won it just 3:09 into sudden death. During a four-on-four, he took advantage of a fortunate break.
Briefly after the Devils misconnected on a three-on-one, defenseman Ken Klee turned over the puck in the neutral zone. Brind'Amour sprung Wallin who broke in on Brodeur. As he went to deke, the puck deflected off a sliding Paul Martin back to Wallin and trickled off his skate past Brodeur. After a video review upstairs, the goal counted to dash the Devils' hopes.
"I don't know," Wallin said of the lucky bounce. "But I'll take it."
In his five-year NHL career, Wallin has scored 12 goals during the regular season. Astonishingly, he now has three OT winners in the playoffs.
"Everybody can get the puck to the net, that's what the playoffs are about," he added. "Call me the secret weapon."
"We've got to go back and try to win our games at home," Brodeur said after making 35 saves. "We played pretty well but just didn't the bounces there at the end. That's how it goes."
Notes: Devils' defenseman Colin White sat out his fifth game in a row with a groin injury. His status remains uncertain for Game Three. ... By making 21 saves en route to the victory, Carolina rookie Cam Ward became only the third NHL goalie to win his first six postseason starts, tying Anaheim's Jean-Sebastien Giguere (2003) and Boston's Tiny Thompson (1929-30). ... Carolina defenseman Aaron Ward missed a portion of the second period due to taking a puck off the forehead, drawing blood. ... Brodeur is now 8-19 for his playoff career in OT. ... Langenbrunner finished with a goal and assist.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Canes Storm Devils To Draw First Blood
It had to end eventually. The Devils' run of 15 straight ended abruptly when they were stormed by the Hurricanes 6-0 in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at a capacity RBC Center Saturday. It was their first loss since a 4-3 defeat to Toronto on March 26.
Returning from a week layoff, the Devils showed rust against their quicker opponents. A step behind from the outset, they couldn't muster anything. The Canes dominated play outshooting the Devils 38-21 and outplaying them by a wide margin.
"We're not looking for any excuses whatsoever," Devils GM and Coach Lou Lamoriello told the AP. "We didn't do some of the little things that we've been doing that gave us the success that we've had."
Not only were they not sharp but luck wasn't on their side on Carolina's first two goals. After defenseman Ken Klee took an unnecessary Delay of Game penalty, Ray Whitney made him pay by banking in a shot off defenseman Brad Lukowich's stick past Martin Brodeur to give Carolina the lead at 11:37. In their series victory over the Rangers, they only trailed for 4:39. Being behind early didn't bode well.
Dictating play, the Canes continued to attack in the second period. After Whitney hit a post, Eric Staal stole a puck in the neutral zone and fed Whitney. This time, he centered the puck for Staal off Brodeur's pokecheck and in for his second of the day to increase the lead to two at 2:58. It was the start of a big period for Staal, who would add a goal and assist for three points on the day.
"We had our legs today, guys were skating well," Staal said. "That's our game. If we're moving our feet, we're going to create opportunities and power plays."
Despite trailing by two, the Devils had their chances to get back into the game. But they couldn't capitalize on three consecutive power plays including a nine second five-on-three.
Frustrated by the Canes aggressive penalty killing, they lost their discipline which led to directly to the game turning into a rout. With Sergei Brylin and Jamie Langenbrunner in the box 1:12 apart, it didn't take long for Carolina to take advantage. Directly off a faceoff win by Rod Brind'Amour, Staal moved in and beat Brodeur with a quick wrist shot thru the legs to give the Canes a three-goal lead at 17:32.
With Langenbrunner still serving his minor, Cory Stillman made it 4-0 only 34 seconds later when he rebounded home a Justin Williams shot. Amazingly, the Devils had given up as many goals in two periods as they did to the Rangers in a first round sweep.
Once the goal was scored, it turned ugly. After Williams was shoved into Brodeur by Lukowich, Brodeur shoved the Carolina forward, earning a roughing minor. Coming to his goalie's aid, John Madden got an extra two for roughing, giving the Canes another power play. But it was shortlived when Cory Larose intensified things by running Brodeur, drawing an interference call. Sticking up for his teammate, Langenbrunner evened it up by roughing Larose.
It would get worse for the Devils in the third. After Cam Janssen instigated an entertaining scrap with ex-Devil Mike Commodore, Carolina scored its fourth power play goal when Doug Weight banked the puck in off Brodeur to make it 5-0 at 12:07.
Brodeur's 34th birthday would come to a merciful end when the Canes notched their fifth PPG of the game just a minute later. With Grant Marshall in the box for boarding, Brind'Amour put home a Bret Hedican rebound to finish Brodeur's day with 6:53 remaining. He turned aside 29 of 35 shots. In another ironic twist, the Devils scored five PPGs in a 6-1 destruction of the Rangers in Game One of the opening round two weeks ago.
"Losing 6-0 in the first game of the series is not something to look back on," Brodeur said. "A lot of things went wrong. I don't think you can point at one thing. Our special teams were not up to par."
"These guys are so much quicker," he added. "They have puck pressure everywhere. Their power play, they are definitely doing something we're going to have to take a look at."
Backup Scott Clemmensen saw his first postseason action of his career stopping all three shots.
All that was left was whether rookie Cam Ward would get his first ever playoff shutout. When the Canes killed off the Devils' fifth man-advantage of the game, he had it. Barely tested, Ward stopped all 21 shots for his fifth consecutive win of the postseason.
"We're not happy about the result," Patrik Elias said. "This is the playoffs and we have to take it as it is. Our special teams didn't do a good job and theirs did. That was the main reason why they won."
Notes: Defenseman Colin White sat out his fourth straight game with a groin injury after practicing with the Devils Friday. ... Dating back to their 2002 Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series loss against Carolina, the Devils have now lost their last four playoff games at RBC Center. ... Devils right wing Brian Gionta had his 19-game point-streak snapped. During it, he had 31 points (14-17-31). It was the first time Gionta didn't record a point since March 19th against Ottawa. ... Devils right wing Viktor Kozlov dressed for the first time this postseason, replacing Jason Wiemer. ... Canes were 35-27 on faceoffs including a dominant 22-6 from Brind'Amour. ... Devils look to rebound and gain a split Monday night.
Returning from a week layoff, the Devils showed rust against their quicker opponents. A step behind from the outset, they couldn't muster anything. The Canes dominated play outshooting the Devils 38-21 and outplaying them by a wide margin.
"We're not looking for any excuses whatsoever," Devils GM and Coach Lou Lamoriello told the AP. "We didn't do some of the little things that we've been doing that gave us the success that we've had."
Not only were they not sharp but luck wasn't on their side on Carolina's first two goals. After defenseman Ken Klee took an unnecessary Delay of Game penalty, Ray Whitney made him pay by banking in a shot off defenseman Brad Lukowich's stick past Martin Brodeur to give Carolina the lead at 11:37. In their series victory over the Rangers, they only trailed for 4:39. Being behind early didn't bode well.
Dictating play, the Canes continued to attack in the second period. After Whitney hit a post, Eric Staal stole a puck in the neutral zone and fed Whitney. This time, he centered the puck for Staal off Brodeur's pokecheck and in for his second of the day to increase the lead to two at 2:58. It was the start of a big period for Staal, who would add a goal and assist for three points on the day.
"We had our legs today, guys were skating well," Staal said. "That's our game. If we're moving our feet, we're going to create opportunities and power plays."
Despite trailing by two, the Devils had their chances to get back into the game. But they couldn't capitalize on three consecutive power plays including a nine second five-on-three.
Frustrated by the Canes aggressive penalty killing, they lost their discipline which led to directly to the game turning into a rout. With Sergei Brylin and Jamie Langenbrunner in the box 1:12 apart, it didn't take long for Carolina to take advantage. Directly off a faceoff win by Rod Brind'Amour, Staal moved in and beat Brodeur with a quick wrist shot thru the legs to give the Canes a three-goal lead at 17:32.
With Langenbrunner still serving his minor, Cory Stillman made it 4-0 only 34 seconds later when he rebounded home a Justin Williams shot. Amazingly, the Devils had given up as many goals in two periods as they did to the Rangers in a first round sweep.
Once the goal was scored, it turned ugly. After Williams was shoved into Brodeur by Lukowich, Brodeur shoved the Carolina forward, earning a roughing minor. Coming to his goalie's aid, John Madden got an extra two for roughing, giving the Canes another power play. But it was shortlived when Cory Larose intensified things by running Brodeur, drawing an interference call. Sticking up for his teammate, Langenbrunner evened it up by roughing Larose.
It would get worse for the Devils in the third. After Cam Janssen instigated an entertaining scrap with ex-Devil Mike Commodore, Carolina scored its fourth power play goal when Doug Weight banked the puck in off Brodeur to make it 5-0 at 12:07.
Brodeur's 34th birthday would come to a merciful end when the Canes notched their fifth PPG of the game just a minute later. With Grant Marshall in the box for boarding, Brind'Amour put home a Bret Hedican rebound to finish Brodeur's day with 6:53 remaining. He turned aside 29 of 35 shots. In another ironic twist, the Devils scored five PPGs in a 6-1 destruction of the Rangers in Game One of the opening round two weeks ago.
"Losing 6-0 in the first game of the series is not something to look back on," Brodeur said. "A lot of things went wrong. I don't think you can point at one thing. Our special teams were not up to par."
"These guys are so much quicker," he added. "They have puck pressure everywhere. Their power play, they are definitely doing something we're going to have to take a look at."
Backup Scott Clemmensen saw his first postseason action of his career stopping all three shots.
All that was left was whether rookie Cam Ward would get his first ever playoff shutout. When the Canes killed off the Devils' fifth man-advantage of the game, he had it. Barely tested, Ward stopped all 21 shots for his fifth consecutive win of the postseason.
"We're not happy about the result," Patrik Elias said. "This is the playoffs and we have to take it as it is. Our special teams didn't do a good job and theirs did. That was the main reason why they won."
Notes: Defenseman Colin White sat out his fourth straight game with a groin injury after practicing with the Devils Friday. ... Dating back to their 2002 Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series loss against Carolina, the Devils have now lost their last four playoff games at RBC Center. ... Devils right wing Brian Gionta had his 19-game point-streak snapped. During it, he had 31 points (14-17-31). It was the first time Gionta didn't record a point since March 19th against Ottawa. ... Devils right wing Viktor Kozlov dressed for the first time this postseason, replacing Jason Wiemer. ... Canes were 35-27 on faceoffs including a dominant 22-6 from Brind'Amour. ... Devils look to rebound and gain a split Monday night.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Winning All That Matters To Brodeur
Devils' goalie Martin Brodeur has accomplished plenty throughout his 12-year NHL career. The three-time Stanley Cup winner and Olympic gold medallist was nominated for the Vezina Tuesday. Though he's won it the past two seasons, that's not what's important.
"The way I approach the game, it's all about winning," Brodeur said at a league conference call in preparation for the Carolina Hurricanes with the best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semifinal set to begin Saturday afternoon.
"I don't have a problem with where I stand in hockey, that's for sure," he added. "I think I've been really fortunate to play with a great team. I get a lot of recognition throughout my career."
Earlier this season, the Devils struggled without Patrik Elias and weren't a playoff lock. Things were so bad that Larry Robinson stepped aside due to stress after a 4-1 loss on December 17. Ironically it came against the Devils' next opponent, the Hurricanes.
"Definitely it was tough times," said Brodeur. "Seeing a guy of the stature of Larry Robinson, of what he accomplished as a coach in New Jersey and in L.A. and all that, tough to go through that. ... You feel really responsible, especially when you're one of the oldest players and some of the leaders on our hockey club. We feel like we let the guy down. It was a big wake-up call to see him go like that."
In a tough spot, GM Lou Lamoriello put his reputation on the line and took over behind the bench. Soon after, things began to turn around.
"I think he [Lamoriello] played a major role," Brodeur pointed out. "He definitely put this team together. He believed in it. Definitely had to make a few tweaks during the middle of the season with sending guys in the minors and a couple guys retired, or I don't know what happened there. There was a lot of stuff going on."
"I think when he put the team that he wanted on the ice, it kind of happened. And at the same time, Patrik came back healthy."
With Elias finally returning from hepatitis in January, the Devils started playing the kind of hockey they were capable of.
"I think when we started getting results, we went on a nine-game winning streak at one point when Lou took over early in January. I think that made us believe that now we're able to do that," Brodeur noted.
Despite not having his best season, Brodeur still finished strong, matching his season best mark in wins with 43 and helping spark the club to an NHL record 11-game win streak to close the regular season- propelling them to a sixth Atlantic Division title.
That was good enough to be nominated for the Vezina along with Calgary's Miikka Kiprusoff and Rangers' rookie Henrik Lundqvist.
"No, pleasantly surprised," he acknowledged about the recognition. "I think a lot of goalies had great seasons and definitely with the rocky first half of the season for myself and for the team, I didn't expect to get in on the voting, especially in the top three. ... We've definitely peaked at the right time and late in the season to get ourselves in a great position. I guess that was enough for people to consider me as the top three."
Coming off a first round sweep of the Rangers, the Devils have won a remarkable 15 straight spanning the end of the regular season and beginning of the postseason. Showing no signs of slowing down, they'll look to take the next step to a fourth Cup in 12 years.
"I think we have confidence in what we're able to accomplish out there," mentioned Brodeur. "That's similar to the clockwork games that we played over and over throughout my career that we knew we were going to go in and we knew that we were going to play well defensively. We were just hoping for breaks, and most of the time, it happened. You could see a lot of the same happening to us right now."
Brodeur knows what the blueprint for success has been for his team's turnaround.
"We don't shoot ourselves in the foot. We don't kill tons of penalties and we're disciplined."
"It's definitely a lot of similarities of some of the good teams that I played. It's just that now we know exactly what to do."
"The way I approach the game, it's all about winning," Brodeur said at a league conference call in preparation for the Carolina Hurricanes with the best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semifinal set to begin Saturday afternoon.
"I don't have a problem with where I stand in hockey, that's for sure," he added. "I think I've been really fortunate to play with a great team. I get a lot of recognition throughout my career."
Earlier this season, the Devils struggled without Patrik Elias and weren't a playoff lock. Things were so bad that Larry Robinson stepped aside due to stress after a 4-1 loss on December 17. Ironically it came against the Devils' next opponent, the Hurricanes.
"Definitely it was tough times," said Brodeur. "Seeing a guy of the stature of Larry Robinson, of what he accomplished as a coach in New Jersey and in L.A. and all that, tough to go through that. ... You feel really responsible, especially when you're one of the oldest players and some of the leaders on our hockey club. We feel like we let the guy down. It was a big wake-up call to see him go like that."
In a tough spot, GM Lou Lamoriello put his reputation on the line and took over behind the bench. Soon after, things began to turn around.
"I think he [Lamoriello] played a major role," Brodeur pointed out. "He definitely put this team together. He believed in it. Definitely had to make a few tweaks during the middle of the season with sending guys in the minors and a couple guys retired, or I don't know what happened there. There was a lot of stuff going on."
"I think when he put the team that he wanted on the ice, it kind of happened. And at the same time, Patrik came back healthy."
With Elias finally returning from hepatitis in January, the Devils started playing the kind of hockey they were capable of.
"I think when we started getting results, we went on a nine-game winning streak at one point when Lou took over early in January. I think that made us believe that now we're able to do that," Brodeur noted.
Despite not having his best season, Brodeur still finished strong, matching his season best mark in wins with 43 and helping spark the club to an NHL record 11-game win streak to close the regular season- propelling them to a sixth Atlantic Division title.
That was good enough to be nominated for the Vezina along with Calgary's Miikka Kiprusoff and Rangers' rookie Henrik Lundqvist.
"No, pleasantly surprised," he acknowledged about the recognition. "I think a lot of goalies had great seasons and definitely with the rocky first half of the season for myself and for the team, I didn't expect to get in on the voting, especially in the top three. ... We've definitely peaked at the right time and late in the season to get ourselves in a great position. I guess that was enough for people to consider me as the top three."
Coming off a first round sweep of the Rangers, the Devils have won a remarkable 15 straight spanning the end of the regular season and beginning of the postseason. Showing no signs of slowing down, they'll look to take the next step to a fourth Cup in 12 years.
"I think we have confidence in what we're able to accomplish out there," mentioned Brodeur. "That's similar to the clockwork games that we played over and over throughout my career that we knew we were going to go in and we knew that we were going to play well defensively. We were just hoping for breaks, and most of the time, it happened. You could see a lot of the same happening to us right now."
Brodeur knows what the blueprint for success has been for his team's turnaround.
"We don't shoot ourselves in the foot. We don't kill tons of penalties and we're disciplined."
"It's definitely a lot of similarities of some of the good teams that I played. It's just that now we know exactly what to do."
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Devils Look To Take Canes By Storm
After dismantling the Rangers in four straight to raise their win streak to 15, the Devils will look to take the next step against the Hurricanes. While the Devils made quick work of their first round opponent, the Canes cameback from two games down to take the next four against Montreal to advance.
It sets up an intriguing match-up which could have fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams are capable of scoring on the rush and in transition. Each works diligently in the corners and tries to outwork opponents. Both enter with hot goalies. So who will come out on top in the third playoff series between these budding rivals? A berth in the Eastern Conference Final is on the line.
Series History: Devils are 1-1 against the Hurricanes in best-of-seven series.
Year Round Result
2001 Conf. Qtrs def. Canes in 6
2002 Conf. Qtrs lost to Canes in 6
2006 Conf. Semis ???
Season Series: Each team won twice but Carolina took the season series by virtue of one more point earned in an overtime loss. The Canes outscored the Devils 13-9 overall. Brian Gionta paced the Devils with two goals and three assists for five points. For Carolina, ex-Pen Mark Recchi registered seven points in five games against the Devils.
SERIES MATCH-UPS
Forwards: The Devils enter play having outscored the Rangers 17-4 on the strength of 11 points from Patrik Elias. Linemate Jamie Langenbrunner chipped in with eight points. Dynamic top line American combo Scott Gomez and Brian Gionta played well in the first round as did checking center John Madden and overlooked linemate Jay Pandolfo. This gives the Devils three lines which can contribute. Carolina counters with leading scorer Eric Staal. In his first ever playoff series, he had eight points. Veteran pivot Rod Brind'Amour is coming off an effective first round while Cory Stillman and Matt Cullen were key contributors. Justin Williams plus vets Recchi and Doug Weight supply depth.
Edge: Even
Defense: Brian Rafalski was outstanding in the first round playing steady D and supplying offense (1-3-4). He'll need to duplicate that effort against Carolina's aggressive forwards. Paul Martin also was solid and chipped in with three assists and a plus-six rating. With physical presence Colin White missing the last three games due to a balky groin, vets Brad Lukowich, Richard Matvichuk and Ken Klee stepped up. David Hale played well in White's place and could be asked to again due to White's uncertain status. Carolina's blueline is led by vet Bret Hedican. He was a factor in their comeback against Montreal, contributing three assists. Frantisek Kaberle can also jump into the play if needed. Aaron Ward and Mike Commodore provide beef. Glen Wesley and Niclas Wallin aren't flashy but get the job done. If the Canes' power play needs a boost, ex-Devil Oleg Tverdovsky could see some action.
Edge: Devils
Goalies: Martin Brodeur was splendid in exorcising the demons against the Rangers. He only allowed four goals on 114 shots and recorded his 21st career postseason shutout. He also is tied with Ed Belfour and Billy Smith for third all-time in wins (88). His next start will be his 138th consecutive, surpassing Patrick Roy's playoff record of 137. A three-time Cup winner, Brodeur should give the Devils an edge. The Hurricanes will counter with 22-year-old rookie Cam Ward. In replacing an ineffective Martin Gerber, the former 2002 first round pick was brilliant in sparking his club to four straight wins. In four starts, he turned aside 105 of 110 shots. If Ward stays hot, the experience factor won't mean much. If he comes back to earth, look for Gerber to replace him.
Edge: Devils
Special Teams: The Devils dominated the Rangers in the first round, outscoring them 8-2 on the power play and notching three shorthanded goals. The Hurricanes scored six times on the man-advantage but also gave up six PP goals to Montreal. They didn't score shorthanded but are capable.
Edge: Devils
Coaching: Since taking over for Larry Robinson last December, GM Lou Lamoriello has done an outstanding job. Along with assistants Jacques Laperriere and John MacLean, they have devised excellent gameplans which have had the team well prepared. In typical fashion, Lamoriello refuses to take any credit, opting to put the focus on the players. Carolina head coach Peter Laviolette is responsible for a Whaler/Canes franchise record in wins (52) and points (112). In his first full season, the ex-Islanders coach guided his team to a 36-point improvement. Laviolette is a solid motivator who gets the most out of his players.
Edge: Even
Intangibles: Both teams have enough experienced players who know what it takes to advance. The Devils have more players who have won Cups. However, the Canes should get a lift from their home crowd at RBC Center. Despite being the higher seed, they might be viewed as underdogs. Four years ago, they were in a similar role against the Devils and used it to their advantage.
Edge: Hurricanes
Keys to a Devils victory:
-Shutdown Staal
-Get to Cam Ward early
-Attack questionable Carolina D
-Win the battle of special teams
What can't happen:
-Ward outplays Brodeur
-Devils defense succumbs to Canes' high powered attack
-Devils offense trades chances with Canes leading to problems
-Weight and Recchi tilt the offensive balance
Prediction: This should be a very competitive series. Both teams are playing well coming in. But ultimately, Brodeur should be the difference.
Devils in six
It sets up an intriguing match-up which could have fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams are capable of scoring on the rush and in transition. Each works diligently in the corners and tries to outwork opponents. Both enter with hot goalies. So who will come out on top in the third playoff series between these budding rivals? A berth in the Eastern Conference Final is on the line.
Series History: Devils are 1-1 against the Hurricanes in best-of-seven series.
Year Round Result
2001 Conf. Qtrs def. Canes in 6
2002 Conf. Qtrs lost to Canes in 6
2006 Conf. Semis ???
Season Series: Each team won twice but Carolina took the season series by virtue of one more point earned in an overtime loss. The Canes outscored the Devils 13-9 overall. Brian Gionta paced the Devils with two goals and three assists for five points. For Carolina, ex-Pen Mark Recchi registered seven points in five games against the Devils.
SERIES MATCH-UPS
Forwards: The Devils enter play having outscored the Rangers 17-4 on the strength of 11 points from Patrik Elias. Linemate Jamie Langenbrunner chipped in with eight points. Dynamic top line American combo Scott Gomez and Brian Gionta played well in the first round as did checking center John Madden and overlooked linemate Jay Pandolfo. This gives the Devils three lines which can contribute. Carolina counters with leading scorer Eric Staal. In his first ever playoff series, he had eight points. Veteran pivot Rod Brind'Amour is coming off an effective first round while Cory Stillman and Matt Cullen were key contributors. Justin Williams plus vets Recchi and Doug Weight supply depth.
Edge: Even
Defense: Brian Rafalski was outstanding in the first round playing steady D and supplying offense (1-3-4). He'll need to duplicate that effort against Carolina's aggressive forwards. Paul Martin also was solid and chipped in with three assists and a plus-six rating. With physical presence Colin White missing the last three games due to a balky groin, vets Brad Lukowich, Richard Matvichuk and Ken Klee stepped up. David Hale played well in White's place and could be asked to again due to White's uncertain status. Carolina's blueline is led by vet Bret Hedican. He was a factor in their comeback against Montreal, contributing three assists. Frantisek Kaberle can also jump into the play if needed. Aaron Ward and Mike Commodore provide beef. Glen Wesley and Niclas Wallin aren't flashy but get the job done. If the Canes' power play needs a boost, ex-Devil Oleg Tverdovsky could see some action.
Edge: Devils
Goalies: Martin Brodeur was splendid in exorcising the demons against the Rangers. He only allowed four goals on 114 shots and recorded his 21st career postseason shutout. He also is tied with Ed Belfour and Billy Smith for third all-time in wins (88). His next start will be his 138th consecutive, surpassing Patrick Roy's playoff record of 137. A three-time Cup winner, Brodeur should give the Devils an edge. The Hurricanes will counter with 22-year-old rookie Cam Ward. In replacing an ineffective Martin Gerber, the former 2002 first round pick was brilliant in sparking his club to four straight wins. In four starts, he turned aside 105 of 110 shots. If Ward stays hot, the experience factor won't mean much. If he comes back to earth, look for Gerber to replace him.
Edge: Devils
Special Teams: The Devils dominated the Rangers in the first round, outscoring them 8-2 on the power play and notching three shorthanded goals. The Hurricanes scored six times on the man-advantage but also gave up six PP goals to Montreal. They didn't score shorthanded but are capable.
Edge: Devils
Coaching: Since taking over for Larry Robinson last December, GM Lou Lamoriello has done an outstanding job. Along with assistants Jacques Laperriere and John MacLean, they have devised excellent gameplans which have had the team well prepared. In typical fashion, Lamoriello refuses to take any credit, opting to put the focus on the players. Carolina head coach Peter Laviolette is responsible for a Whaler/Canes franchise record in wins (52) and points (112). In his first full season, the ex-Islanders coach guided his team to a 36-point improvement. Laviolette is a solid motivator who gets the most out of his players.
Edge: Even
Intangibles: Both teams have enough experienced players who know what it takes to advance. The Devils have more players who have won Cups. However, the Canes should get a lift from their home crowd at RBC Center. Despite being the higher seed, they might be viewed as underdogs. Four years ago, they were in a similar role against the Devils and used it to their advantage.
Edge: Hurricanes
Keys to a Devils victory:
-Shutdown Staal
-Get to Cam Ward early
-Attack questionable Carolina D
-Win the battle of special teams
What can't happen:
-Ward outplays Brodeur
-Devils defense succumbs to Canes' high powered attack
-Devils offense trades chances with Canes leading to problems
-Weight and Recchi tilt the offensive balance
Prediction: This should be a very competitive series. Both teams are playing well coming in. But ultimately, Brodeur should be the difference.
Devils in six
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