Thursday, October 3, 2013

The Tradition Continues

Opening night in the National Hockey League is always a special occasion.

The 2013-14 campaign kicked off with the Canadiens hosting the Maple Leafs. In an entertaining contest, Toronto edged the Habs by a 4-3 score.

Back on December 23, 1918,  Montreal and Toronto helped usher in the 1918-19 season. Like 2013, the summary reveals a final score of 4-3, but it was the Canadiens earning the victory 95 year-ago over the Toronto Arenas.

One of hockey's greatest goalies, George Vezina, stole the spotlight in Montreal's win. "Vezina was the outstanding star of the game," declared The Globe in their game story on Christmas Eve. The report went on to detail Vezina's performance. "In the early periods Arenas bombarded the visitors net and threatened to pile up a commanding lead, but the Montreal wizard proved equal to the occasion and made marvellous stops."

No matter the era, the anticipation of game one is what keeps every fan coming back for more. Points are on the line and hope springs eternal for a championship year.

In 1918, Montreal got the jump over Toronto, however, the other night it was Toronto's turn.

The fun and excitement is only beginning.

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