Spence Gets 2 Points in 4–2 Win Over Utah
Slow Start for Both Sides
The game between the Ottawa Senators and the Utah Mammoth began sluggishly, as both teams were playing on consecutive nights. There was little urgency early on, and goaltenders on both sides faced limited pressure.
Ottawa managed some zone time roughly five minutes into the game but remained largely on the perimeter. Soon after, Leevi Merilainen delivered a key save that kept the score level.
Even Strength and Early Breakthrough
About nine minutes in, both teams received offsetting minor penalties, producing several minutes of 4-on-4 play. Utah quickly generated a scoring chance, while Ottawa struggled to mount offense, showing that their special-teams difficulties extended beyond power plays.
“Job’s not done ’til the puck crosses the line 👊 #GoSensGo”
Fortunately for Ottawa, Merilainen held firm, turning away Utah’s attempts. On the counterattack, Shane Pinto fired a shot, Ridly Greig caused traffic in front, and the puck deflected off multiple opponents before finding its way into the net.
Redemption for Merilainen and Momentum for Spence
Referred to by fans as the “Leevi Merilainen redemption game,” the performance helped ease concerns about Ottawa’s inconsistent goaltending and coaching decisions, particularly the limited ice time for Jordan Spence. Spence contributed two points in the 4–2 victory, signaling better balance and confidence for the team moving forward.
Looking Ahead
This win wasn’t Ottawa’s most dominant performance, but it brought reassurance that effort and persistence can yield results — a promising sign as they aim to find stability for the rest of the season.
Author’s summary: Ottawa’s 4–2 victory over Utah, fueled by Spence’s two points and Merilainen’s strong performance, restored faith in a struggling Sens lineup.