Ottawa Senators Shut out Edmonton Oilers in Emotional Win

Ottawa Senators goaltender Craig Anderson records an emotional shutout Sunday night versus the Edmonton Oilers following the recent sad news of his wife.

The Ottawa Senators came out on top over the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday night in a 2-0 game. The Senators’ win came amidst a strong 7-1-0 Oilers start this season and at just the right time to bring Ottawa some hope.

Senators goaltender Craig Anderson shut out the Oilers in his first game in net since the news of his wife’s diagnosis with cancer. This amazing win, and play by Anderson was an emotional feat for Ottawa and the entire arena, despite it being a road game.

In The Rink

Anderson blocked all 37 of the shots he faced while in net. Anderson was focused and firm despite his recent hardships. The goalie put all his strength into performing for and leading his team.

The two Senators’ goals came from forwards Mike Hoffman and Bobby Ryan. Both goals were excellent shots to beat out Oilers goalie Cam Talbot, in the midst of his hot streak.

Hoffman’s goal was a quick shot that got the team ahead  in the second period. This goal would later be the team’s winning goal.

Despite the Senators’ strong play, the win was ultimately dedicated to Anderson and his terrific performance in goal. The team praised Anderson after the game for his strength and leadership.

Craig Anderson’s Strength

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The only reason Anderson was back with the team was his wife, Nicholle. With the news of Senators’ goaltender Andrew Hammond‘s injury, Nicholle told Anderson to return to his team and get in net.

After the two drove back to Ottawa, Anderson was on the ice for practice and surrounded by the support of his team. The Senators admired Anderson’s strength and were confident following him into the game. Anderson would go on to defeat a team running on a hot streak.

The coaching staffs for both the Senators and the Oilers wore their Hockey Fights Cancer ties in honor of the Anderson’s.

The game ended with an emotional nod from the entire arena. Once the final buzzer sounded, Anderson bent over emotionally and his team joined him to celebrate the win; the love and support in the arena were shared among everyone there.

Hockey Fights Cancer

Despite it being a road game for the Senators the entire arena erupted in applause for Anderson. When the goaltender was announced as the number one star of the game he was greeted with an abundance of applause and support.

Even the Oilers showed their support for the goaltender. Oilers’ goalie Talbot stood by the team’s entrance before the ice to applaud his fellow goaltender and show his support.

This emotional win came at just the right time for Anderson. During this hard time, there is nothing more important than the support from his family, team, and fans.

Moments like these, especially during Hockey Fights Cancer, unite the hockey community in an unparalleled way.

Anderson’s play was strong and composed as he led his team to victory.  This win will be remembered by this team forever.

The hockey community is showing their support for the Anderson’s with the hashtag #StayStrongNicholle.

The Ottawa Senators will return home to the Nation’s Capital for their next matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes on Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.

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