Smith loses shutout, but lifts Coyotes to win
Saturday, October 1, 2011
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- Mike Smith made 28 saves in the Phoenix Coyotes' 3-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night, the preseason finale for both teams.
Smith was perfect through two periods, and only a fluke goal prevented the shutout. Martin Hazel had a goal and an assist, and Radim Vrbata added two assists for the Coyotes (3-4).
The Sharks (5-1) spoiled Smith's shutout bid midway just over eight minutes into the final period when defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic's shot from the right point deflected off the Phoenix defense and over Smith's right shoulder.
After a scoreless first period, the Coyotes broke it open with three goals in the second.
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