San Jose Sharks Logan Couture (39) is congratulated by teammates Matt Irwin (52) and Patrick Marleau after scoring the first goal of the game. UPI/Bill Greenblatt
The San Jose Sharks scored two power play goals ,1:12 apart in the first period and handed the Blues their first loss of the season in five straight games at home in a 6-2 defeat. San Jose scored three goals overall with the man advantage.
The Sharks got a goal and three assists from Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau had a goal and two assists, Logan Couture had a goal and an assist, and Antti Niemi stopped 25 shots as San Jose improved to 6-0-0, tying the Sharks with the Colorado Avalanche for the NHL’s best record. The Blues dropped to 4-1-0 and saw their 10-game regular-season home winning streak snapped.
San Jose Sharks Dan Boyle is taken from the ice by stretcher after being injured in the first period. UPI/Bill Greenblatt
Scary moments early in the game. Defenseman Dan Boyle of San Jose was taken off the ice in a stretcher after being checked from behind by St. Louis’ Maxim Lapierre, who was ejected. A Sharks spokesperson said Boyle was alert and responsive and will be held overnight for observation at the hospital
“No one in their right mind would ever want that to happen to another guy,” said Blue captain David Backes. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Dan Boyle and his family. That’s a scary thing, it’s something you hope never happens. Hopefully he has a speedy recovery and he’s back on the ice soon.”
Several Sharks players thought the play was dirty, including Logan Couture. “It’s just disgusting to see that type of play in hockey, when a player that probably shouldn’t even be in this League is taking out one of the best players in the world,” said Couture. “Lapierre has got a history.”