NHL: San Jose 4, Phoenix 1

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SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Dan Boyle scored the first of three San Jose power-play goals Thursday and the Sharks won their fourth straight with a 4-1 decision over Phoenix.

The winning streak is San Jose's longest of the season and has moved the Sharks within three points of both the division and conference lead.

Boyle tied it midway through the second period and Joe Thornton put San Jose in front for good with another power-play tally less than 4 minutes later.

Patrick Marleau secured the victory with a pair of third-period goals, the second one coming on the power play and boosting his season total to 13.

Antti Niemi made 24 saves and allowed only a first-period goal to Ray Whitney that briefly gave the Coyotes the lead. Whitney's score also came on the power play.

Jason LaBarbera gave up four goals on 39 shots.