~ Photo: Jeff Roberson, AP

~ By Pearl Allison Lo

~ In a 2016 Western Conference Final rematch, Saint Louis Blues’ David Perron had the “special” goal that made the difference over San Jose Thursday, 3-2.

It was the closest game between the two teams since Game 1.

Perron scored midway during Mikkel Boedker’s interference penalty at 15:56 of the second. He was aided by Stastny and Fabbri.  The power play goal ended San Jose’s franchise-matching 11 games without giving up one. Perron now has five points during a three-game points streak, Paul Stastny’s assist was his second in as many games and Robby Fabbri’s point continued a three game streak with four points.

That second period was key. It was the only period in which the Sharks had more penalties and were outscored. San Jose’s Chris Tierney and Tomas Hertl also had to leave the game during the period. Tierney returned in the third but Hertl’s status is still unknown.

However, San Jose had their chances throughout the game, as they went 0-for-6 on the power play.  They also had some 5-on-3 time in the second and 6-on-4 time with less than a minute to go in the game.  

Goalie Jake Allen preserved his streak, now protecting his home turf for 13 straight games by two goals or less.

The Sharks had another opposing player score two goals, this one being the already hot Jaden Schwartz. He came in with two goals in his last three games, including one the game before.

San Jose’s goals were not without their importance. Logan Couture’s goal was his first 5-on-5 goal of the season. Kevin Labanc’s goal was his first in the NHL.  

Game notes: The Sharks were able to limit Vladimir Tarasenko to two shots. Couture had a game-high five shots. San Jose will now conclude their longest road trip Saturday at 5pm, facing the Arizona Coyotes again.