The New York Rangers (3-2-2) ended their tour of Canada on a high-note, when at the 8:31 mark of the third period Captain Ryan Callahan scored the game-winning goal over the Winnipeg Jets (2-5-1). This was just the kind of victory needed for the Blueshirts, to end what has been a long trip.

New York first started their season in Europe, then to Long Island, and concluded with a four game week-long trip in Canada. Now the Rangers can return home to Madison Square Garden, who has had a bit of a face-lift since the last time the team played in the hallowed venue.

Both the Rangers and the Jets were stale-mated through one period of play, as it took the second frame when New York connected on their first goal of the night.  Forward Ruslan Fedotenko scored his first goal of the season, on a power play opportunity at the 5:51 mark, off a deflected shot-with the assists coming from Dan Girardi (2) and Michael Del Zotto (2).

Winnipeg made the game interesting at the 14:29 mark when Nik Antropov connected for the first Jets goal of the game, on a 30 foot snap-shot. The defense for New York combined with keeper Martin Biron, shut down the Jets’ offense.

Captain Cally found the game-winner at the 8:41 mark, when on a power play opportunity he deflected in a 20 foot shot, assisted from Fedotenko (4) and Girardi (3), which propelled the Rangers to a 3-1 road record.

The Rangers will now look to defend home turf in style, with an Original Six face-off with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday. The home opener for the Rangers is scheduled to air on the MSG network, with the face-off slated for 7:00 p.m.

Written on October 25, 2011