The slumping Anaheim Ducks lost their second straight game on Sunday night, falling 3-1 to the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. The Ducks fell to 1-2-1 to start their seven-game road trip, and are just 1-4-1 in their last six games.
The Ducks ran into a hot goalie in Steve Mason, who saved 19 of 20 shots for the win. The win for Columbus was just their second of the season, as they have the worst record in the NHL at 2-9-1.
Both teams scored in the first period, with Rick Nash for Colmbus and Bobby Ryan for Anaheim each netting their fourth goal of the season in the opening 20 minutes. Nash's goal came at 2:23 of the first period, and coupled with Ryan Johansen's goal at 1:57 of the second period continued a trend of late of the Ducks giving up early goals.
Anaheim pulled goaltender Dan Ellis with 1:23 remaining but to no avail. Ellis saved 18 of 21 shots in the loss. The Ducks (5-5-1) continue their road trip with a battle in the nation's capital Tuesday night against the Southeast Division-leading Washington Capitals.
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