Flyers Barely Beat Pens 6-5 in OT
Once again, the Flyers failed to close out the 3rd period with a very comfortable lead. At one point in the second period, they were up 5-1 thanks to some tremendous play by their big three stars: Forsberg, Gagne and Primaeu. Forsberg had four assists, with some brilliant passing. In fact, he set up Gagne’s two goals from impossible angles. How’d he hit those? Primaeu’s line is nice and big and they can physically dominate…thought that is harder to do with the new NHL rules. Still they added a much needed “we’re bigger and stronger than you” presence to the rink and gave the Flyers their first goal.
The Flyers looked good for about 3/5ths of the game. And then they dropped the ball (er…puck). This looks like its going to be their achilles heal this season. They can’t close out games. Things got ugly when they gave up the tying goal on a shot from the middle of the rink.
Everyone’s saying that this is all a product of the new NHL. Games can swing in an instant. But is it really that difficult to protect a 4 goal lead? It’s not like the refs were calling the game in the Penguins favor.
The big worry for the Flyers is at goalie (and probably defense). They consistently outshoot their opponents (last night by double) but barely squeak out the wins.
Last thing to note: I like Pitkanen. Especially the way he goes after the other team’s star players early in the game probably with the hopes of breaking their concentration. I think he’ll turn into a fan favoriate as the season progresses.
About this Post
Posted on October 15, 2005 by Micah | Filed Under Flyers, Philadelphia
|
Print This Article | Leave a Comment