TORONTO — In a dramatic finish at Scotiabank Arena, Pierre Engvall’s go-ahead goal with just over two minutes left in the third period lifted the New York Islanders to a 3-2 victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday. Engvall, facing his former team for the first time since being traded to the Islanders, found the back of the net in a moment that was both poignant and pivotal, snapping his recent scoring drought.
The Islanders, who had been struggling with three consecutive losses and only one win in their previous eight games, found much-needed momentum with this victory. Coach Patrick Roy highlighted the team’s resilience, especially after the Maple Leafs tied the game late in the third period, praising the Islanders for maintaining their focus and seizing the opportunity to clinch the win.
Toronto’s John Tavares, who had a goal and an assist, tied the game on a power play with 4:48 remaining, setting the stage for Engvall’s dramatic winner. Tavares and Mitchell Marner, who also scored for the Maple Leafs, couldn’t prevent the team from succumbing to the Islanders’ late push.
The Islanders’ victory was underpinned by strong performances across the board. Mathew Barzal and Kyle MacLean also scored, with MacLean netting his first NHL goal in memorable fashion. Ilya Sorokin’s goaltending was crucial, stopping 35 shots and providing the defensive backbone needed for the win.
Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe expressed frustration over the team’s mistakes that led to New York’s goals, particularly the second and third, which he described as “gifts.” Despite battling back to level the score, the Maple Leafs’ inability to capitalize on their momentum ultimately led to their downfall.
Barzal’s opening goal set the tone for the Islanders, and MacLean’s breakaway goal showcased his potential in just his sixth NHL game. On the other side, the Maple Leafs’ Marner continued his impressive form, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for Toronto.
The Islanders’ win, marked by Engvall’s critical goal against his former team, illustrates the tight competition in the NHL and the importance of seizing opportunities. As the Islanders look to build on this victory, the Maple Leafs will aim to regroup and address the errors that cost them crucial points in the standings.
