Capitals Fall on Day 3 of Preseason

The Washington Capitals dropped a tight 3-2 decision to the Carolina Hurricanes on Day 3 of the preseason. Washington outshot the home side, but it wasn't enough as the Hurricanes scored two quick goals in the third period to take the victory.

The Capitals opened the scoring in the first period when Todd Warriner netted from Frantisek Lukes and Andrew Ference at 5:47. Washington controlled the action in the first, outshooting Carolina 12-8 and killing off one penalty after Jonathan Cheechoo went to the box for highsticking.

Washington killed another highsticking penalty, this time a five-minute major by Cory Sarich, in the second period, but Carolina tied the game shortly thereafter. Kovalev was the scorer from Wellwood and Niedermayer at 15:43.

With the game level at 1-1 entering the final period, the Hurricanes took control. First Dwyer scored an unassisted goal at 9:51 to make it 2-1, and then Brent tallied from Colaiacovo just 45 seconds later to open a two-goal lead. Mikael Renberg brought the Capitals back to within one when he scored from Michal Rozsival at 13:45, but it wasn't enough.

Manny Legace stopped 23 shots in a losing effort for Washington. Robert Gherson made 26 saves to pickup the win for Carolina.

Washington is off on Day 4 before visiting Detroit on Day 5.