The Lightning took on division foe Carolina Hurricanes in their first of three trips to Carolina this season. Coming off a slow start, and a late rally that just came up short against the NY Islanders the Bolts looked to bounce back in the first of many back-to-back games this short season. A stellar performance by Mathieu Garon and the Lightning offense lead to a great night for the Bolts. 

Just five minutes into the action and the Bolts struck first as Tom Pyatt was able to tip in the pass from Vinny Lecavalier from about ten feet out into a wide open right side of the net. Six minutes later Lightning rookie sensation Corey Conacher racked up his fifth point of the season putting the wrist shot past Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward, giving his team a 2-0 lead early on. The goal was once again assisted by team captain Vinny Lecavilier, his third of the season. 

Taking a 2-0 lead into the first intermission the Bolts came out playing physical and ready to add to their lead. Boarding penalties by Conacher and Ryan Malone lead to a 5 on 3 advantage and just as Conacher came out of the box Jeff Skinner put in the backhanded shot while falling down on the pass from Jordan Staal. The power play goal cut the Lightning lead to just one and made it 2-1. 

After a tough second period the Lightning came out firing in the final period. Less then two minutes into the third period and Keith Aulie put home his first goal of the season. The goal, assisted by Brendan Mikkelson, gave the Bolts a 3-1 advantage. Tampa had five power play opportunities throught the night and it took until chance number five for the Bolts to put the puck in the net. Ryan Malone scored on a deflected shot that was originated from the stick of Sami Salo. The second effort goal opened the game up, and after some outstanding saves by Mathieu Garon the Bolts cruised home to a 4-1 victory. 

The Lightning next play at home on Friday night against the Ottawa Senators. The puck drops at 7:30 and you can catch all the action on our sister station, 970 WFLA. Make sure to check out 620 WDAE and www.620wdae.com for all your best bolts coverage. 

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