Battle of Pennsylvania 2010-11: Game 2

In game two, things looked different. There was a new Penguin goaltender between the pipes and another new arena as the venue was the perpetually hostile crowd of the Wells Fargo Center (or whatever they want to call it these days). It's a quick turn around to game 2 as the painful memory of the opening day loss to the Flyers remain in the minds of the Penguins players and fans. Could they strike back in front of the Flyers fans?

Of course, this was no easy task for the Penguins who were now facing a new goalie as well as the defending Eastern Conference champions. The first period started like the first game as Danny Briere scored after the 6+ minute mark on the power play to give the Flyers a 1-0. Johnson, who had looked more confident than Penguins starter Fleury lately, had also started to provide doubts for the Penguins hopeful fans. But Kris Kunitz, not known to be as productive in a Penguins uniform, scored on the new enigmatic Russian-born Bobrovsky to tie up the game 1-1 just 5 minutes later. Penguins fans believed their team was in better shape than the first game going into 1st intermission with the tie.

In the second period, Mark Letestu (who?) the shocking Penguins rookie placeholder for the injured Jordan Staal, scored another goal to make it 3 on the year and break up the tie late. The Penguins and Flyers fans expected that at any moment the momentum could shift and we could have more fights happen than the one Rupp-Shelly dance that occurred early in the 1st period. Still, Bobrovsky was standing tall and certainly making the case that he should be the next Flyers starting goalie outright.

The 3rd period should have been the relief that the first 2 periods of tension had created. Starting with the return of the "class" that the Flyers fans have been known for, the "Crosby sucks" chant echoed through the rink showing that their seething jealousy continues to plague the fans. But it only served to be a negative motivator as Crosby put the puck in the net twice during the power plays to bring the Penguins a 4-1 lead middle way through. Matt Cooke, often villainized for the way he aggressively plays, scored a final goal at the open net to remind the Flyers fans that the Penguins weren't exactly going to hand over the Atlantic division crown without a fight.

It was a solid game for Brent Johnson and a game showing that Bobrovsky was in fact human. Game 3 is going to be back in Pittsburgh in early November.

Afterthought Note: The Flyers captain, Brad Richards, decided to give a "spirited" post-game interview (via: Broadstreetbullies)"it's tough to be playing Pittsburgh, they are going to be falling down easy". I am sure the Penguins faithful will keep this up on the bulletin board. Would you like some cheese with that whine, Mr. Richards?

[Via: Yahoo! Sports]

Battle of Pennsylvania 2010-11: Game 1

The Battle of Pennsylvania begins with a new arena to play in and a fresh new perspective on NHL hockey. Consol Energy Center has been talked about all summer long and would certainly be the underlining storyline to the game. Once the pomp and circumstance have all worn away, we would get the first true look at what the NHL season had in store.

But as I clicked on the TV reminder note to the channel once the Penguins vs. Flyers game was about to start, Versus showed the concert outside Dundas street in downtown Toronto instead of the opening night festivities in Consol. I was fuming! I patiently waited while Hedley belted out a mediocre if not downright awful tune. FSN Pittsburgh would not put up with any of this nonsense! And Versus had to verbally acknowledge that the first commercial break was spent honoring the old voice of the Penguins in the Mellon Arena, John Barbaro, who passed away this past summer.

But as the Versus network actually made it to broadcast the game, we are treated to see the Commissioner Bettman and Mario Lemieux drop the ceremonial first puck on the long red carpet. I didn't find out until later that Mario had already been out to the ice and dropped a tankard of water from the ice at Mellon Arena.

The first period was a lot of what I expected and a little less of what I wanted. Crosby and company were stiffed by a young goalie that was experiencing his first career NHL start. It was as if the Penguins couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with the puck. The Flyers had some great chances as well, but were countered by some better Penguins defensive zone action. It was a feeling out period that neither team got the upper hand or a score on the board. 0-0 to the 1st intermission.

By the second period, I wondered who would finally get the first goal scored in the new arena. Every second that ticked away, it had become a smörgåsbord of trivia. It wasn't much longer of a wait as Danny Briere answered the call to fulfill history. His goal at 2:51 in the period became the first goal scored on the new Consol Energy Center ice. Penguins fans collectively hung their head as they all knew that the "classy" fans of Philadelphia will never ever live this one down. Then things got even more complicated as Blair Betts was credited with a second goal near at the end of the period to give the Flyers a 2-0 lead going in to the 2nd intermission.

The 3rd period must have seen a Penguins team that might not have even been ready to play. :44 seconds in to the 3rd saw Tyler Kennedy finally solve the rookie goaltender Bobrovsky. It seemed to bring out some life in the Penguins who realized that dropping the first game in the new building would not be all that great. But the Flyers once again made Fleury look stupid and tossed in a shorthanded goal 4 minutes later. My heart demanded a trade for Fleury as soon as the game ended. Inexcusable. The Penguins decide too little too late to stage a comeback and score again before the powerplay was over. Alex Goligoski got the puck through with one final second to spare on the PP.

So as the final horn rang through the hope of winning the first game at the new Arena was dashed at the marvelous play by Bobrovsky. Could he keep up during the remaining 81 games? That's not an easy question to answer, but I do know for sure - the Flyers fans will never let this down. EVER! Flyers win game 1 of the Battle of Pennsylvania 3-2.

Battle of Pennsylvania 09-10: Game 5

72 hours later from a disappointing showing against the hated rival Washington Capitals, the Penguins have to fight off their other hated rival on national TV in America. Leading up to the game, fans were told that Fleury was expected to start, but at the last minute, the switch was made for an unremarkable Brent "Johny" Johnson.

The first period was going to be tricky as to how the game developed into which personalities fans were going to see. The Penguins pushed and tugged, but the Flyers were determined to get underneath Crosby's skin once again. Then things got really weird. The first goal was struck by the Flyers on the power play with Crosby in the box for slashing. Brent Johnson makes a pee-wee mistake by not protecting the pipe allowing Jeff Carter to wrap it around the open space. Then as tempers flare up, the Flyers rush up to score a second goal. However, it occurred during an offsetting penalties involving Malkin and Asham. Since the Flyers were called for two minors, the goal was waived off and the Penguins given a power play. Gonchar let another shot from his stick go though Guerin's redirect swipe for a 1-1 tie.

The second period was just the opposite of the first. Both the Penguins and Flyers dumped their aggressive attack for a more puck possession style. Johnson seemed to get his head on straight during the 1st intermission while he utilized this glove grabbing a few shots out of the air. After 2 periods, the score remained 1-1.

When things turned around to the third period, fans had a sense that the next goal was going to be the result of a fluky bounce or a bad penalty. Then the real Flyers showed their true colors and again roughed up Crosby and company to get them off their game. It took two back to back penalty kills for the Penguins for them to sense any kind of counter attack. Even after a center ice brawl that showed the Penguins weren't going to turn the other cheek, the Flyers didn't back down from their stance. But with the time winding down, Timonen takes a critical penalty where Gonchar again rips another shot through screening traffic past Emery for the 2-1 lead. They eventually credit Cooke with the redirection.

So the Penguins pick up another crucial 2 points to keep pace with the rest of the Atlantic Division foes.

Battle of Pennsylvania 2009-10: Game 1

Another season for the Battle of PA rivalry began tonight as the bragging rights stakes were geared up a little higher now that the Penguins are defending champs and the Flyers collected a lot of "muscle".

As Game 1 ended, it was going to be another game where it adds to the Flyers/Penguins lore. All through the game, the Flyers were trying to intimidate the Penguins by throwing heavy hits and provoking fights. Even when the game had its share of fights, one last brawl between Hartnell and Letang which resulted in Letang's hand recieving a bite mark. Of course, Penguins fans are sure not going to forget this along with the Flyers fans not able to live it down. Gotta love this rivalry, right?

The game was in Philadelphia this time around as the Flyers fans seemed to be bursting with bloodlust from the start. The Flyers would get caught with a 2 minute Briere hooking penalty and the Penguins would make them pay with an Evgeni Malkin Power Play goal just 48 seconds into the game. But that wouldn't deter the Flyer-ladened goon squad as many more dumb penalties were exchanged. But with all of the fighting, there was some goal scoring as Jordan Staal remined the hockey world just why Emery was not a great goaltender. Staal faked Emery with a great side-to-side switch with the puck before making it hit the twine.

Second period saw the Flyers bring back some respectablitiy where they kept up on the scoring sheet. Briere added his 2nd goal of the night, but not before the ageless Penguins veteran Guerrin knocked one by the goal as well. The game went into the locker room intermission with a fragile 4-3 lead. Whoever could capture the game's momentum in the third would have the better chance of winning.

The third period saw the Flyers flop and fumble their way out of the game as they continued roughousing and taking stupid penalties. The Penguins Tyler Kennedy would make it a 5-3 game at the period's halfway point. But not to be outdone, Jeff Carter surprised everybody by scoring his 4th goal of the season. That again heighened tensions back in Flyers favor with a chance to tie things late or frustrate the Penguins to make a big mistake.

That didn't happen as the Penguins brawled their way out of Philly with a 5-4 win.

[Via: Yahoo! Sports]

Battle of Pennsylvania 08-09: Game 5

With the post-season in jeopardy, the Penguins knew they had to turn things up a few notches against their cross-state rivals. But speaking of turning notches, the Philadelphia based Comcast network erroneously switched their #29 and #226 channels in the Pittsburgh area to the Sunshine Network of Florida, causing the viewers in Pittsburgh to rush to the phones and complain.

The Penguins looked like a different team than the one that played weeks earlier. They stared down the Canadians on Thursday night, but knew that it wouldn't mean much if they came up short again Saturday afternoon.

The Flyers packed their arena with almost 20,000 screaming fans making it a record attendance in Flyers franchise history. But right from the opening period, the fans booed Crosby each time he touched the puck. And with the first strike on the scoreboard, Jeffery Lupul threw a backhanded shot that left Fleury guessing. The rest of the period went on with the Flyers leading 1-0. Also in the period, a Flyer player took a questionable dive, a delayed reaction, that cost J-Staal 2 minutes for tripping.

In the second period, Sid Crosby corrected the scoring imbalance 21 seconds into the 2nd period. Malkin also followed up with a goal of his own. And former Flyer Fedotenko gave the Penguins a comfortable lead 3-1. The question now stood weather a Blysma coached team would be comfortable or continue to attack the Flyers net. The answer would help solve the riddle of the Penguins struggling season.

In the 3rd period, Mike Richards did what he does best and well-timed a pass intercept taking the puck by himself to the other end. 3-2. Coburn would make it 3-3 and pull all the momentum to the Flyers favor. But at the half-way point, Fedotenko would again haunt his former team with yet another goal of his own. The Flyers still wouldn't give up, leaving Mike Knuble, a reliable Penguin-killer, to once again tie the game up at 4-4.

What happened at the end of the game would have to be a miracle play that will positively be discussed for future post game analysis. Martin Biron left his goal crease, tried scooping it up, but somehow fumbled it over his shoulders. Dupuis was quick to chip it ahead to a waiting Crosby in the slot where he scored the winning goal.

The Penguins are still 4 points out of the 8th spot for the playoffs, but with 2 key wins in their pocket, they will soon climb up the ladder one rung and game at a time.

[Via: Yahoo! Sports]

Battle of Pennsylvania 08-09: Game 4

With stats that were thrown out during the beginning of the game that the Flyers had a 8 game winning streak at home and the Penguins have not won there in a long while, the Penguins might as well feel the pressure of a rivalry game. The Flyers were finally looking down on the Penguins from the divisional standings and they looked to stay in the drivers seat.

In the first period, Marc-Andre Fleury mishandled a puck from behind his net which then plopped in front of the unattended net. Mike Knuble, a regular Penguin-killer, had only but swoop on the Fleury mishap and poke it in for the games first goal. The play first started as a Flyers charged break out since being frustrated with a 1-2-2 trap that the Penguins strategies the morning of the game.

The work horse of the night was newly promotied Matt Cooke who almost looked like he was a natural fit playing wing with Geno and Sid. He out-hustled the Flyers and provoked a couple of penalties the whole game. Tyler Kennedy evened things out for the Penguins late in period 1 - a reward for firmly controlling the Flyers offensive flow. Also noted was the Goddard and Cote fight that was wrongly broken up when Goddard got a good punch that took Cote to the ground. Cote came looking for more, but the refs wouldn't let it continue.

The second period saw the Flyers continue to dump the puck back into the zone, only to have the Penguins defense sweep up the pucks for an attack in the other direction.

Pittsburgh played the first two periods more like the team that beat the Flyers in last year’s Eastern Conference finals than the one that came in stuck in an alarming slump that left them outside a playoff spot.

It really frustrated the Flyers fans into showing their true colors by being classless. Booing Crosby and chant "Crosby Sucks" only motivated Crosby more. He played on another level with Malkin as his wing while attaining his 250th career NHL point.

The third period saw the Penguins relax their trap defense just enough to allow the Flyers to bring things within 2 by Lupul scoring a goal. But when it was all over, the Flyers chose to get really undiciplined. The Flyers got caught with a "too many men" bench penalty as well as causing a 5-on-3 penalty kill with a minute and a half left. Vaananen took a shot at a Penguins head and Hartnell was soon caught slashing Orpik's body while skating by.

When the Penguins win, all is right with the world. Will this be the return of the Penguins to quality wins? The Penguins play rival Ovechkin and the Capitals tomorrow. Don't ya just love sports rivalries?

Battle of Pennsylvania Continues

When I created the Battle of Pennsylvania @ Blogspot way back in 2005 as a response to the Battle of Ontario and Battle of Alberta blogs, I made it a mission to promote the Pens and Flyers rivalry to the rest of the hockey fandom world. It has been a daunting task, but certainly something that this blogger is up for. But I think that the key to appreciating this is actually having lived in Pennsylvania in either of the two cities Pittsburgh or Philadelphia or at the Battle of PA Maginot Line of State College.

"Neither team liked each other (then)," said Jones, "and it’s expected to be the same (now)."

The two teams, Flyers and Penguins, hate each other. You can confirm it by reading the trash-talking quotes in the newspapers and blogs. But in this entry, I will sum up the latest episodes in the feud.

This current incarnation's level is also raised because most of the Flyers and Penguins have already fought it out in the AHL minors and that memories continue to spill over into the NHL. Hockey fans in Pennsylvania are treated to a double dose of playoff hockey rivalries as the AHL Penguins and Phantoms are fighting through another round continuing their natural regional rivalry. The AHL Penguins are leading the 7 game series so far (2-1) and

Both teams coaches, Therrien and Stevens know each other from opposing each other in the AHL as well. Therrien often gets quoted on TV or in the papers acknowledging the increased intensity. Recently, he criticized Coach Stevens for running up the score in a game earlier this season.

My advice to those who don't live in the Keystone state, just enjoy the hockey. You are in for some really passionate games. Go read some of the other articles that are written about the two teams capsulizing their rivalry since their 1967 NHL inclusion. Yahoo! Sports NHL.com "Pennsylvania is hockey heaven"

Battle of Pennsylvania 07-08: Game 8

Even though the Penguins already had a playoff position, both the Penguins and Flyers were still deciding the final resolution to the season. Would the Flyers face the Penguins yet again or would the Penguins eye a revenge match up destiny against the Senators?

If the Flyers lost this game, they would give the Conference title to the Penguins and play them in the first round as the 8th seed. But if the Penguins lost, the Penguins would sit at #2 and play the Ottawa Senators.

Credit to where it is due, the Flyers game intro in the Wachovia Arena was very impressive as FSN-Pitt captured the end of "God Bless America" and the light show that followed. That was all it took for me to get amped up for this rivalry game! I would find out that my excitement would be short lived.

The Penguins decided to bench Crosby, anticipating that the Flyers would intentionally take liberties towards hurting him for a future possible playoff match up. They also had concerns for Fleury who would play in net. With Crosby getting a rest, we did get to see the return of thee bad ass- GARY ROBERTS!

The first period saw the Flyers look like they were going to play nice and actually try to win the game. Were they scared at a Penguins first round series? Penguins fans expected the Flyers to play a typical Flyers "Broad Street Bullies" game, but were biding their time until they were provoked. The first period ended with no score and consequently almost put me to sleep. Come on, guys! Last game of the season! Make the highlight tapes.

Second period saw more physicality and the Flyers goalie Martin Biron was playing opposite to what he was in game 7. He was shutting down the Penguins at every shot with the Penguins helping the cause by looking like crap on the Power Play. Scottie Upshall scored in the second period, but no panic could be seen on the Penguins faces. It only makes the comeback win more dramatic. We got 'em right where we want 'em.

“It wasn’t quite a playoff atmosphere game and it kind of felt like each team was feeling each other out,” Penguins forward Jordan Staal said. “We really should have come out stronger at first and we would’ve took the game.”

Third period was the last 20 mintues for this regular season run. I would hate to see the game as a fan knowing that it would be the last time to see action until next year. The Penguins tried harder and Ruutu agitated even more. Could this be a future playoff matchup? Would the Battle of PA extend to a playoff recap? With nothing really to lose, the Penguins pulled Fleury in the waining minute of the third. The Flyers were gunning to add the insurance goal and breathe a sigh of relief that they were not destined to go out the first round of the playoffs. Mikey Knuble, a familiar Penguin-killer slammed home the EN goal to give the Flyers a 2-0 victory.

The Flyers win the Battle of PA for this year 5 games to 3 in the regular season series.

[Via Yahoo! Sports]

Battle of Pennsylvania 07-08: Game 6

Another national broadcast on NBC for the Penguins and the Flyers. I am sure the suits at the Peacock network are upset that the game is not going to feature Sid Crosby. But the Penguins were determined to get their game plan and not stoop to the lowest common denominator.

So.. the game begins and I am fighting the hangover blues of a wild weekend. The Penguins come out firing in the first period knowing what is at stake. A shaky (and possibly tired) Biron lets in a soft goal to Malkin. That was Malkin's 40th of the year. Honestly, I haven't been keeping an eye on his goal totals, so when I saw the stats line on the screen, I was a little surprised. What is it with Malkin when Crosby is away? Malkin comes out of his shell when Crosby is out of the lineup, but disappears when he is relegated to the 2nd line. Speaking of streaky stuff, local sports guys warned that Sykora was streaky scorer, and boy were they right! Welcome back to the scoresheet, Sykora!

“That’s what you need when your top guy goes out,” said Ryan Malone, who had two assists while skating with Malkin and Sykora. “There’s no reason when Sid comes back that we can’t have the same desperation, the same attitude. He’s just going to add to us.”

This further frustrates the Flyers who are starting to look like the Flyers of last year. Boston wore them out last night.

1st intermission with NBC and I am really starting to like "Mad Mike" Milbury. Gotta laugh at his provoking commentaries.

Second period shows Biron in no real desire to play and the Penguins again go on the attack. Biron mishandles a rebound that Tyler Kennedy - KENNEDY hits in and gets replaced by "da Gangsta" Niittymaki.

Biron wasn’t happy with his play, or being lifted, saying, “When you get taken out of a game where your playoff life is on the line, you’re never happy about it.”

The Flyers had shown some spark of life as the only guy to show up was Patrick Thoresen. Even when you can't condone his attack after the whistle on Letang, at least he was getting noticed. He also helped set up a great centering pass to perennial Penguin-killer Knuble for the Flyers only goal of the game. After having lost Hatcher last night, the Flyers also look to have lost RJ "Benedict Arnold" Umberger as his knee was rolled under by Whitney.

In the third, with the threat looming of a real full on Flyers brawl when the Flyers get frustrated, the Penguins poured on the heat and added another "1st timers club" goal by Hal Gill. And Sykora added a final 7th goal to rub it into the Flyers noses remembering how the Penguins were badly beaten 8-2 in December.

Payback is a bitch... and now all is right with the world.

[Via: Yahoo! Sports]

Battle of Pennsylvania 07-08: Game Two

Well, Game 1 went to the Flyers as the Penguins couldn't adjust to the new Flyers or were able to solve Biron. They should have been prepared for that knowing what difficult times they had with Biron in a Sabres jersey.

Game two would be played in the "friendly confines" of Wachovia Center. The Flyers fans were more than hospitable and made sure they showed just how they felt about the Penguins captain every time they touched the puck. [sarcasm]Classy.[/sarcasm]

The Penguins again got into trouble when they saw the scoreboard read 1-0 Flyers just 1:30 into the game. Killing a penalty, they couldn't control the rebounds leaving Kimmo Timonen a short poke at it. Then Knuble took it to the Penguins as his PP goal let the Flyers have a 2-0 lead. Is this what it feels like, Penguins?

But the Penguins won't roll over for anybody. Malkin gave Penguins fans a ray of hope midway through the second to cut the Flyers lead to 3-1. Sergei Gonchar, making up for his lack of puck handling skills, zapps another of his signature goals from the blueline making it 3-2 at the 2nd intermission.

"The right-handed shot" problem is getting so bad that the Pittsburgh TV announcers (Paul Steigerwald and Bob Errey) are going out of their way to crowbar in that hint. They also should have mentioned to play Briere better as he was critical to Buffalo's success last season. Briere scored to take the wind of hope out of the Penguins sails and to put the Flyers up 4-2. Hartnell got the empty net to get the final box score looking lopsided once more to the 5-2 figure.

The Flyers have grabbed the first two crucial games in the divisional battle making this a competitive rivalry once more.

Battle of Pennsylvania 07-08: Game One

[Note: This Year, my Battle of PA game reviews will be shared with the new BattleBlog Battle of Pennsylvania in which I have been the inspiration for.]

It is a new season with the Flyers improved in the standings, the balance in the Atlantic was at stake in the first game. In net, we see Marty Biron, another steal from the "Buffaslugs" who can bring his consistent performance day in and out. And in the Penguins net, we see the hot performing Danny Saburin starting over Fleury who hasn't been earning time.

Less than a minute in, the Penguins get scored on at 1-0. Clearly, the Penguins are out of sync. Then the game got a little feisty, signaling that the Flyers were back and that their brand of rough bullying were going to play out. Then Jeff Carter, who scored a lot of goals in the last year's series, just shell shocked the home Penguins fans as well as the players. The Penguins saw themselves on the opposite end of a 2-0 lead, something that they had recently given to their opponents. But a resurgent Ryan Malone would answer the call in the first period, clicking with his new favorite linemates Crosby and Malkin. Thanks to the real "favored Pittsburgh son", Malone brought the Flyers lead in half at the first intermission. 2-1.

And in the second, the Flyers did not let up and kept to their gameplan. Turnovers and forced shots let the Penguins fall back on their heels. But Orpik and "Benedict Arnold" Umberger got into a great fight 40 seconds into the next period. With the Penguins powerplay streak in jeopardy, the Pens couldn't complain that they weren't getting the calls. Both Crosby and Malkin were getting the Flyers to get caught for interference and hooking calls. But Mike Richards brought the score to 3-1 and just out of reach for the inept Penguins offence.

As the third period closed without a goal, there were a few questionable calls as both teams tried to use their muscles instead of brains. Recchi gets called for boarding that infuriates him. But when the clock wound down, the Flyers raised their arms in victory effectively exercising the embarrassment of the winless previous Battle of Pennsylvania campaign.

Battle of Pennsylvania 06-07: Episode 8 Live Edition

So, I am going to sit here and blog live as I update this blog and watch the Penguins and Flyers as they are broadcast from NBC this afternoon. As they open up from an excellent view of Pittsburgh and my hometown, they introduce the broadcast for this game and explain others will see Colorado vs Detroit.

Joe Micheletti is in the booth between the benches. During the last home game, Bob Errey sat in the same place and helped out the Penguins by acting as a screen from the opposing team during the timeout. Will Joe help out? Probably not.

EDIT: Uh-oh. 1-0 from the "new look" Flyers and Jason York.

EDIT: The Crosby and "youngest to 200" talk this period has reached 4 times and we are not even half way through the 1st period. NBC really understands how to focus on the prime-time players.

EDIT: Who made the decision that this game gets the "B-game" crew of broadcasting commentators? They are doing a great job, but Mike "Doc" Emrick should be doing this game.

EDIT: The answer to the Moose Trivia Question is Brett Hull. He was drafted in the 6th round while Ferraro was drafted in the 5th round and Clement was a 2nd rounder.

EDIT: Uh-oh. Fleury is starting to crack. 2-0 Flyers after a long shot from the blue line.

EDIT: I went ice skating late last night and now that NBC is showing a lot of the Rockerfeller Center (or as they like to call it "The Rink at 30 Rock") I am determined to ice skate on that legendary sheet of ice once before I die.

EDIT: Congratulations to Gary Roberts for his first goal in a Penguin uniform. Marty Biron has been absolutely huge this afternoon. No wonder Buffalo was winning so many games this year. Simon Gagne is also hustling out every opportunity. He may figure in on the scoreboard before this game is over.

EDIT: Great job with Brett Hull's slapshot editorial. Now, if he could only have time to practice it a little more so he doesn't sound like he is reading it off the teleprompter.

EDIT: It is now coming down to overtime 3 on 3 to decide the final game of the series.

EDIT: Okay, great. it is a shootout. The Pens MUST win this game for the pride of the city and to keep pace in the playoff perspective. Marty Biron hasn't made any mistakes at all this game.

EDIT: And Crosby once again comes up the hero to score the clutch shootout OT goal. Fleury came up huge by snapping up shot after shot. This is history in the NHL this afternoon, everybody. This is the first time the Penguins have been able to sweep the season series in the NHL since both teams came into the league in 1967.

In closing I would just like to thank all my friends at NBC Sports, those who work behind the scenes, and those have been blogging and featuring my blog to all their readers. I truly appreciate the attention on that large scale. But if any of my readers haven't seen the NHL on NBC blogs yet, then what are you waiting for?

Live Blogging Announced For NHL on NBC

Confessions of a Hockey Fanatic blog would like to announce that during the NBC broadcast of the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers*.

Prepared for the game, this blog will update itself frequently to instantly react to all aspects of the game as well as editorialize on the NBC broadcast. This is expected to be the last meeting between the two clubs during the regular season and with the Penguins franchise future uncertain it could be the very last Battle of Pennsylvania game.

* = Pending uninterrupted Internet service availability.

Battle of Pennsylvania 06-07: Episode 7

One of the first things that FSN-Pittsburgh covered to begin the next edition of the rivalry saga was that the Wachovia Center crowd was really thin. It looked as if the Flyers faithful fained fickleness as the futile situation of the season.

The second thing that the FSR crew talked about was that the Penguins have never swept the Flyers in their rivalry's history, but have come close going 5-0-2. The Flyers have swept the Penguins twice in a season series.

The first period was smooth with both teams crashing the net, issuing the possible scoring solution. Jordan Staal, who is looking for a Calder trophy nomination, seemingly scored his 20th goal, but it was revoked for goaltender interference. But the kid Staal would not be denied and got a second shot at it almost half way into the period. The Penguins led 1-0.

Rumors about Forsberg leaving should also be annotated with the possibility that Simon Gagne will find a way out of Philadelphia. Especially, if Gagne plays like he did tonight scoring 2 power play goals to put the Flyers ahead 2-1.

*At this point, I had to get to a work meeting and have to rely on other post-game results*

The Penguins and Flyers settled things down in the second period. Not much happened, but Michel Ouellet scored on a power play goal to even things out 2-2. Third period was crucial as the momentum shifted from the Penguins back to the Flyers as it took a final gasp to charge into OT with Mike Knuble scoring one of his goals with an extra-attacker.

The shootout that followed the 5-minute OT was as frantic as the regular gametime. Therien played the odds and still listed Crosby in the shootout lineup despite being 0 for 7. Each shootout participant flew in at the opposing goal very quick hoping to not give Fleury or Niittymaki time to settle in. Crosby, now the anchor in the shootout lineup trio, used a similar move that he used in the All-Star skills competition and put it past Niittymaki for the only goal in the shootout.

All is right with the world.

Game Notes: Mark Recchi was recognized in the Arena during the first TV commercial break for reaching the 500th goal benchmark. Crosby has 14 goals and 16 assists in 17 games against the Flyers.

Yahoo! Sports

Battle of Pennsylvania 06-07: Episode 6

While all my Canadian friends are glued to their CBC for the yearly tradition of Hockey Day in Canada, I have my own enjoyment to watch the Penguins play the latest episode of the hated rival Philadelphia Flyers. The big stories of the game was developing into just how much the game quality the American audience would see during the NBC broadcast. Sid Crosby is coming into the game in first place in the scoring race, but creeping up is his nemesis Ovechkin. How many points would Crosby pick up to maintain that point separation?

The NBC broadcast was in a crisp beautiful High Definition making the Flyers 3rd jersey a really bright fresh pumpkin orange. NBC would also bring close the Olczyk/Penguins connection as he would be the color analyst offering more knowledge than what I would expect from a professional. Ed Olczyk, former Penguins coach and player, gave the NBC audience a little personal anecdote claiming that he fought like hell to keep Marc-Andre Fleury on the major level, but the Penguins trumped him by stating they had financial concerns. He then ended his story with mentioning that he was fired from the job days later. In my opinion, Olczyk only came off as being bitter.

The Flyers also showed a lot of frustration on the ice during the game despite capturing the game's first goal by Ryan Potulny a little after a minute and a half into the game. But Sergei Gonchar would tie it up at 1-1 before Ben Eager decided to excuse himself for the afternoon and pick a fight with one of the Penguins enforcers Chris Thorburn earning himself a game misconduct. The Pens ended the first with a 2-1 lead when Evgeny "Geno" Malkin scored his 21st goal of the year.

The second period was just as scrappy as the first as each team skated around looking for the unsuspecting player to lower a shoulder into. Former Flyer Mark Recchi took a nice shot at the goal 15 and a quarter minutes in to make it 3-1 Penguins and it looked like the Penguins had all the momentum. But the Penguins soon realized that the Flyers would not lay down for them this time as the Flyers battled back with 2 quick goals of their own by Gagne and Forsberg respectively. NBC's "man in the middle" Pierre McGuire, asked Mark Recchi at the end of the period why the Penguins were letting the Flyers back into the game.

The Penguins took to the third like the previous two and fought off the rowdy Flyers with another goal by Jordan Staal and then sealed it away by a empty net goal by Evgeny Malkin. The Flyer faithful in the Wachovia Center tried to generate some excitement themselves, but not for the hockey game. They looked forward to the Eagles and the NFL playoffs.

With an Eagles playoff game only hours away, the surprisingly strong crowd got more enjoyment out of shouting "E-A-G-L-E-S!" for several stretches in this one. And why not? After all, the Flyers gave them little reason to cheer.

Staal talked about the team's success after the game.

"I don't know. Part of it is just confidence," Staal said. "Once you get a couple going on them, you're more confident playing a team like that. I can't really say why we beat them every time."

Crosby walked out of the afternoon with 1 assist desperate to keep scoring pace.

You can also read the excellent Mike Chen's assessment of the NBC broadcast at the link below.

[Via: Yahoo! Sports & Mike Chen 2.0]

Battle of Pennsylvania 06-07: Episode 2

It was said in jest by new Penguins PbP guy, Paul Steigerwald, that the year's slogan had turned from being an evolution to a revolution. And nothing could be finer than to come of age than to prove to their biggest and nastiest rival - the Philadelphia Flyers.

The Penguins played with confidence and energy that wasn't seen in Philadelphia in a long time. They knew they hadn't won in the Wachovia Center in a very long time. Starting out, this game looked like the Flyers had found some dignity (yea.. and hell will freeze over when that happens) as Mike Knuble scored early in the game. But after that, it was time for Crosby and the Penguins to take over. Sid Crosby single handedly kept the game just out of reach for the disorganized Flyers (see picture at right). Crosby's first goal of the night came 6 minutes into the 1st period and thus began the rout. Maxime Talbot, a cult Pittsburgh fan favorite, also got into the scoring tally to get credit for his first goal of the season since being called up from the AHL.

The Second Crosby goal achieved so much more than the growing swagger in the young team. It positively felt great to hear all the jeers from the Philly fans and the goal caused new coach John Stevens to pull Niittymaki for Rob Esche. That didn't help much because the Penguins goals still came. Crosby was able to steal the puck from his nemesis defenceman, Derian Hatcher, and hit the back of the net for his first career hat trick. Since it came on enemy ice, the booing was loud by the haters in orange and black.

Malkin had a little showing of his own nearing the end of the second period. He threw down a wrist shot from the goal line that trickled through Esche's leg pads and trickled off behind him into the net. Malkin has scored in every game he has played thusfar and looks for a streak that hopefully will see inked into the NHL record books.

As for the Flyers, their frustrations were magnified as several of the key role players on the Penguins found the back of the net as well. Former Flyer, Mark Recchi was able to slap a shot into the net that seemed large enough to drive a truck through. He was later dwarfed by the stature of Staal and Malkin who assisted on the play in their congratulatory hugs. Third line centerman, Dominic Moore, got his first of the season by a fine pass by LeClair.

Tonight's win places the Penguins just out of reach atop the Atlantic Division despite NJ having played 2 more games on the seasonal campaign. Philadelphia is really miserable with only collecting 5 points in 9 games with signs that it is only going to get worse before it gets any better.

"I'd fire my mother if I had to."

Flyers owner Ed Snider when asked by TSN's Michael Landsberg on Off The Record if he would fire Wayne Gretzky if he was the coach of his team and they were struggling.

Battle of Pennsylvania 06-07: Episode 1

As if the new swell of interest in the new hockey season wasn't enough, the Penguins had twice the publicity tonight. But Pittsburgh fans and the local press media really aren't sure what to make of this Balsillie guy. Is he going to help this team or is he a carpetbagger in disguise? Penguins fans were definitely focused on the game and 16,975 packed the Mellon Arena for the season opener.

The pre-game ceremony began with an impressive light show and then a short video tribute to Mario Lemieux. Sid Crosby was seen on the jumbotron explaining about how much Mario has meant to this franchise. He then went on to say "Speaking for myself and for the team - thank you for everything you have done for this franchise." Then they unveiled the new #66 that will hang in the rafters styled after the current Penguins sweaters. Then, the Penguins decided to release 4 actual Penguins and place them out on the ice while another video was seen on the jumbotron. It was a ridiculous parody of the Superman movie and just as equally as bad voice-over imitating the legendary Marlon Brando monologue. When that was done, the Penguins were introduced in order of their jersey number. However, when John LeClair's name was called, a small segment of the crowd boo-ed. My best guess is that some fans are mad at him being involved with the Malkin injury. Crosby's introduction was loud, but I believe FSN Pittsburgh that covered the game tuned down the crowd noise over that broadcast.

The puck was dropped and Crosby won the first draw. The Pens were off to a good start. They came out hitting and out hustling the Flyers who seemed as if they were caught by surprise that the Penguins showed up to play. The first goal came from an unlikelihood of players - Michel Ouellet. Ouellet's bread-and-butter play is to sneak in behind the goaltender and catch a rebound, but Ouellet let a lightning quick wristshot go at the top of the faceoff circle. That surprise was not to be outdone by another unlikelihood of players, role player, Jarkko Ruttu. He went stick side on Robert Esche after being in the right spot. 2-0 Penguins at the end of the first period.

It was known by the start of the game that Jim Balsillie was at the arena and would take questions in a press conference carried live at the first intermission. The press immediately got their best shots in pressing Balsillie into making some sort of statement that he would promise to keep the Penguins in Pittsburgh. Balsillie was all smiles and did his best to avoid being pinned down to any one idea. He then expressed his disappointment, perhaps echoing fans and the team, with the slow progress of a new arena deal. Mario stood back and watched over his shoulder. Once Balsillie finished with questions, Mario took to the podium and with his usual charm and smile, answered questions about his birthday.

The second period began to really get the Flyers back on their heels. Almost 2 minutes into the period, Sidney Crosby scored stick side to make things 3-0. Then came time for the Penguins to show that they weren't going to be pushed around by the Broad St. Bullies - Nolan Baumgartner was assessed 2 min instigator - 5 min fighting - 10 min misconduct after scrappy Colby Armstrong decided it was time to drop the gloves. Even with the last year's games still fresh in Crosby's memory, Crosby too showed da floppa just how he wasn't going to put up with their antics. Crosby seemed determined to stick up for himself and for his teammates whereas last year's aggression of Darien Hatcher unfairly branded Crosby a "whiner". Now that the Penguins established their own style of hockey on their bitter cross-state rivals, Josef Melichar also went to the vulnerable stick side of Esche to make it 4-0.

The third period went without scoring, but that was the crowning achievement to Marc-Andre Fleury. He stood in front of 40 Flyers shots on goal and proved to be the biggest penalty killer blanking 10 Flyers power plays.

It was a great start to the season and it will prove to be one where the Penguins finally turn the corner of miserable losing seasons starting with removing a big monkey on their collective back (see picture).

Notes: Tonight's game also marked the new era without Hall of Famer Mike Lange who will only be heard on radio this season. 2006 draft pick Jordan Staal totaled 12+ minutes of ice time and registered 2 shots on goal.

I will continue to chronicle the Pens/Flyers rivalry with the Battle of Pennsylvania this season as I did last year.

Battle of Pennsylvania @ Blogspot: 8th and Final Edition

I hope you all have enjoyed reading the game recaps of one of the best hockey rivalries in the NHL. It has certainly proven to be a great series with the Penguins gaining some ground back on the Flyers to be competitive. Some of the drama featured in the series had Crosby slamming home a goal in OT. In other games, we saw Forsberg and Gagne work their magic as linemates and dominate the scoreboard.

Before the game started, the Penguins got news that Petr "Floppah" Forsberg wasn't going to suit up for tonight's game because of the lingering groin injury. The Flyers are trying to catch up with the division rival Rangers to get a favorable position in the post season. The Penguins on the other hand had to help Crosby in his personal scoring race with pressures of their own.

The first period was deadlocked at 0-0 as goaltenders Esche and Caron got patted on the back. The Penguins who were unusually awkward in the opening period were trailing behind again in shots 7-4.

The second period saw the usual Penguin killers at work once again. Simon Gagne scored his 45th goal of the season with Brian Savage and Joni Pitkanen adding to the lead. But, the Penguins would come back with a little hope of their own. "Jonny on the spot" Michel Ouellet scored his 15th goal of the year in the waning minutes of the period. The Flyers and Penguins then gathered in their respective locker rooms with Philly up 3-1.

The third period caused Crosby to button up his chin strap and get determined to not fall behind further in the chase for 100 points. A minute and a half into the period, Ryan Whitney scored a goal to put the Pens in good position 3-2. Crosby got an assist in that point and scored his own goal to tie up the game at 3-3. This put the Penguins in good shape to try for OT against the Flyers or just finish the game all together. The Flyers were the ones to play spoiler tonight though. With six and a half minutes to go, 4th line tough guy, Andre Roy gets assessed a penalty for slashing leaving the Flyers opportunity to use their awesome powerplay.

The Flyers got the last laugh as Jeff Carter was credited for the game winner at the 13:28 mark. It did take some great efforts at the last few minutes for former Flyer John LeClair to try to tie it once more. This was his last time skating on Philly ice this season.

It was a great series to watch if you were a fan of hockey in the state of Pennsylvania. Since the NHL has adopted the 8 game rivalries against division opponents, I love the idea of seeing the Flyers this many times as the rivalry is that much more exciting and ads so much more to watching NHL hockey.

The Flyers win the 8 game series 6-2 and the Penguins will have to retool for next season to try to gain ground in the rivalry. Rest assured, there will be some great hockey to be played next year.

If you want to review the series, you can check out my game recaps for the other seven games this season. Game 1, Game 2, Game 3, Game 4, Game 5, Game 6, Game 7.

[Via: TSN.ca]

Battle of Pennsylvania @ Blogspot: Issue Se7en

Once again FOX Sports Pittsburgh had their gimmick of posting Penguins Analyst Bob Errey down at ice level between the Pens/Flyers bench area. As much of a "evil knievel-like" stunt that was, he also braved his environment without a helmet!

Tonight's game was also the return of Brooks Orpik. He didn't start the game, but stepped out on the ice after the opening volley. The opening goal came about half way in the first period when Colby Armstrong hit home a powerplay goal 7:21 into the game. The rest of the game had Marc Andre Fleury standing tall and on his head.

Just before the second period opened, the broadcasting crew found the parents of R.J. Umberger in the stands dressed in their Flyers garb. They asked the parents on their thoughts about rumors having their son traded to the Penguins, but the father was pessimistic about the idea stating that if R.J. Umberger had a bad game, they would be subjected to all of the criticism on the radio.

The Flyers frustration, thanks to Fleury, turned to chippy feisty behavior. Several Penguins and Flyers pushed and shoved with 5:15 left to go in the period. This would certainly be the key to the game. If one player on either side were to lose their cool, it could cost them a penalty kill. This is crucial when the Flyers saw their locker room still down 1-0 at the end of the 2nd period.

Colby Armstrong has really proven himself an offensive force lately posting his second goal of the game early 2:50 into the 3rd period. Crosby helped out with Rita on that goal earning Sid 2 points at that point in his race to chase Ovechkin.

With just over half the game to go, Andre Roy retaliated a hit given to him by Gauthier responding with a barrage of punches. The result was a 7 minute powerplay for the Flyers assessing Roy a 5 minute major and a 2 minute instigator minor with a game misconduct.

The Mellon Arena erupted with loud cheering and a minor standing ovation when the Penguins were able to kill off the penalty. "Let's Go Pens!" and "Go home Flyers!" were heard when the Penguins had a 2-man power play opportunity of their own.

In the end, the Penguins threw their arms up in victory 2-0. They have reason to be happy as their rejuvenated club saw them ending with 28-18 in faceoff wins vs. the Flyers and kept close to shots on goal with 20 to Flyers 22.

Battle of Pennsylvania @ Blogspot: 6th Installment

Back to the drawing board for the Penguins who just can't seem to score a win for a city that is desperately trying to hold on to the future.

The Penguins again took to the ice against the Philadelphia Flyers to challenge themselves in what is to be believed a new franchise milestone low point. The one thing on their mind is losing 10 games in a row. Marc-Andre Fleury again took the net and opposing him was new familiar face Antero Niittymaki.

The first period was key to the Penguins for them psychologically. They tried not to let the Flyers be the first to "strike blood" by scoring the first goal. Pittsburgh took on many tick-tack hooking and holding calls and spent 8 total minutes on the pentalty kill. The Penguins were almost over the hump, but 46 seconds left in the first period, Michal Handzus scored his 8th goal, another softie, for the Flyers to go to the intermission leading 1-0.

The second period was rough, but the Flyers again put the pressure by trying to draw more penalties. Sammi Kapanen was assessed a diving penalty after Sid Crosby was assessed a holding call. That's funny. Two diving calls in consecutive games who's coach (Hitchcock) railed against such behavior? Of course, the haters in Philly were out in force, booing Crosby every time he touched the puck.

"It's always tough to lose when you're that close," said center Sidney Crosby, who had his 31st assist. "We played two pretty good hockey games. But hanging our heads and getting frustrated over it is not going to help us in the next game or the long run."

Does that sound like a whiney spoiled brat to you?

The third period was when the dam broke and despite Recci's and Ouellet's best efforts to tie the game at 2-2 late in the period, Mike Knuble scored his 22nd with helpers from Forsberg and Hatcher. Then the most embarrassing slap in the face came with a empty net goal off the faceoff with 5 seconds left in the game trickling down the opposite end of the ice and credited to Simon Gagne.

Flyers win 4-2.

[Via: Yahoo! Sports]