Auston Matthews says Maple Leafs fans ‘rightfully’ booed the team before their comeback win

“Other than the last 10 minutes of the first period, I think we played pretty solid,” Matthews said. “I think it got away from us after ten minutes, after a couple of bad breaks. I think we stopped taking care of the puck and obviously losing possession was a problem. But I thought we at least played harder and fought harder in the second period.”

Despite the frustrations of being held scoreless through two periods, Matthews said the team remained in good spirits going into the second intermission, intent on sticking to the game plan. Being able to stay sober, they eventually found a way back in and fought their way to victory.

“It’s nice that you come into the locker room, guys stay positive and hold each other accountable,” Matthews said. “We’ve just got to go out there and compete a little bit harder, play the right way, keep things simple. And I thought we just got that third period done.”

“The boo birds came down, rightfully so,” he said. “I think after that first goal the crowd really got into it, which is great. And after the second goal the place was rocking. Good to get that, and obviously good for the power play too. Nice way to end the game.”

PRESENTED BY OFF THE ROSTER