Let's be honest here: it's tough playing in Montreal. The fans are boisterous and loud, there is history dripping from everywhere that attests to the legendary status of the Canadiens, and the Montreal crew has been able to pick itself up from the early season's dismal play to become a contender (best PP in the league).



No doubt inspired by the return of their captain Daniel Alfredsson, the Senators played what can only be described as the quintessential road game: walk away from the first period with a tie, enter the third with a lead, and hold on for dear life. The Senators did almost everything right and almost nothing wrong, dictating the pace, getting chances, burying those chances, and fighting the leagues hottest power play to a standstill.

Contributions came from everywhere and every line. Zack Smith got his first NHL goal on a wonderful play from Alfredsson. Erik Karlsson continued to display his growth as a player, participating more in the offensive, and taking a "good penalty" (is there such a thing?) when needed. The third line consisting of Chris Kelly, Jarkko Ruutu  and Chris Neil were a threat all night long, keeping the play in the Habs' zone most of the time. The list wouldn't be complete without mentioning the play of veteran Chris Phillips who was in for a goal, but was also a presence on the ice all night.

I also found that the Sens were aggressive on the defensive and fought hard for the puck, and while their play behind their own blue line wasn't perfect, you could feel that the Senators are comfortable with Mike Brodeur backstopping them in the net. Brodeur now has a 3-0-0 record with the Sens, an impressive 1.0 GAA and a jaw-dropping .966 save percentage. While he did allow a softie to get past him last night, Brodeur is ready. The Senators have to find a way to bring the lad up to the bigs and keep him there before he gets snapped up by someone else.

The win against Montreal, and the Rangers' loss to St. Louis, means the Sens have a tenuous hold on the 6th place in the Conference. The Rangers and the Canadiens face each other tonight to shuffle the standing once more. The Sens' win against Montreal has put them within stabbing range of the Bruins whom they face on Monday.