Sabres Give It A Good Try — But Lose Again

Lindy Ruff won his first game back at First Niagara Center while Buffalo Sabres coach Ron Rolston is still looking for his first win at home this season.

It was another typically slow start for the Sabres, and it cost them. But give them this much: They put out a good effort in the second half of the game.

If anybody can figure out how to get this team started on the right foot, they'd have a better chance of winning some of these games. The Sabres found themselves trailing 4-1 early in the second period, but they battled back. Matt Moulson, just picked up in the trade for Thomas Vanek the night before, scored twice for the goal-starved Sabres, while Steve Ott scored on the power play. And they made it interesting at the end, coming close to tying it in the final minute.

The fans know the game, and they appreciate a good effort. The Sabres gave a good effort, and the fans showed their appreciation with cheers instead of the boos the players have heard over the first couple of weeks. Ott says it was one of their better efforts this season.

Moulson certainly made an impact in his first game with his new team, but says battling from behind is tough.

The Sabres recognized Lindy Ruff with a classy video montage of him as a player and his years as coach of the team. He seemed emotionally moved by not only the tribute but by the standing ovation from the fans.

The Sabres play in New York against the Rangers on Thursday.