Artur Akhtyamov posts 37-save debut performance, Alex Nylander scores twice as Toronto Marlies complete weekend sweep of San Diego [Video]

“It’s not always going to be pretty. You’re going to make mistakes, but the fact that we can recover from those and still focus on the task at hand… Our guys did a great job responding to whatever was thrown at us this weekend. Good start to the season.”

– John Gruden

“I think our players got energy from his ability to make big saves.”

– John Gruden on Artur Akhtyamov’s debut performance

The Toronto Marlies were not at their best over the weekend, but they prevailed by winning the critical moments. In this 4-1 win on Sunday, key saves from their rookie netminder and timely scoring in the third period made the difference.

First Period

The opening frame was a disjointed affair, with neither team able to assert their authority on the game. San Diego was guilty of overpassing, while the Marlies struggled to find rhythm in their play.

Toronto earned the first power play of the game inside the opening …