The Anaheim Ducks started their season on a high note with a 2-0 victory over the San Jose Sharks, marking their first win of the season and leaving the Sharks with a record of 0-1-1. The game, held at SAP Center at San Jose, showcased the Ducks' defensive prowess and timely scoring, particularly in the third period where they netted both goals to secure their win.

Oct 12, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks goaltender Vitek Vanecek (41) deflects a shot on goal by the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

Ducks' Late Game Heroics

The match remained scoreless through two periods, thanks to stellar goaltending on both sides. However, it was in the final period that the Ducks broke through. Goals from forwards Trevor Zegras and Isac Lundestrom propelled Anaheim ahead. Zegras opened the scoring with his shot finding the back of the net, showcasing his ability to come through when it matters most. Not long after, Lundestrom doubled their lead, ensuring that their late offensive push translated into valuable points on board.

Defensively, goaltender Lukas Dostal was impeccable between the pipes for Anaheim. Dostal stopped all 30 shots he faced from San Jose's offense, recording a shutout and earning him one of the game's star selections. His performance underscored a solid team effort in defense that saw Anaheim block 18 shots while also keeping penalties to a minimum.

Oct 12, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks left winger William Eklund (72) tries to backhand a shot into the goal against Anaheim Ducks goaltender Lukas Dostal (1) and defenseman Brian Dumoulin (6) during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

Sharks Struggle for Offensive Breakthrough

On the other side of ice, despite generating equal shooting opportunities with 30 attempts on goal as well as enjoying six power play chances compared to five by Anaheim; The Sharks were unable to capitalize due largely because they met an impenetrable force in Dostal’s goaltending excellence for Ducks.

San Jose's efforts were further hampered by more frequent visits to penalty box which saw them accumulate twelve penalty minutes over course game compared eight minutes served by visitors - this disparity not only reduced effective playing time but also disrupted rhythm needed establish sustained offensive pressure against disciplined opponent like Ducks.

Oct 12, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks goaltender Vitek Vanecek (41) watches a shot on goal go high over his head as Anaheim Ducks left winger Alex Killorn (17) and Sharks right winger Carl Grundstrom (91) tangle in front of the net during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

Looking Ahead

The Anaheim Ducks will look forward carry momentum from this opening win into their next matchup against Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena located Las Vegas scheduled October 13th at 10:00 PM EDT Fans can catch action live ESPN+, SCRIPPS-VGK TV network Victory+ANA internet streaming service or KCOP-TV depending preference location ensuring no one misses out thrilling continuation early season campaign.

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