tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66732162751037593782024-02-20T00:23:24.158-05:00The Amateur FanAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-5820255602829581562014-11-08T22:45:00.000-05:002014-11-08T22:47:03.210-05:00Flyers win by the skin of their teeth against Avs<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The Flyers took
a commanding 4-goal lead after a 5 minute penalty to the Avalanche late in the
1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> period. Throughout the 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> and 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period
the Flyers kept the Avs chasing a fast paced game, where they dominate, pushed
the pace and exhibited outstanding puck control. But, the Flyers left enough
space for the Avs to mount an impressive come back during the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>
period, forcing the Flyers to bare down and Steve Mason to come up with
important saves. The Flyers killed off a huge 6 on 4 power play in the last
moments of the game to notch the 4-3 win. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Three Stars of
the game: Steve Mason, Claude Giroux, Wayne Simmonds <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Steve Mason has
come back into the net with refreshed confidence and stands tall as the Flyers
starting goaltender. The win tonight largely laid upon his shoulders as managed
to keep the puck out of the net during the last seconds of the game to notch
the win for the Flyers. Claude Giroux had his first multi-goal game and sniped
a beautiful goal in the first period, which earned him a star. This was Wayne
Simmonds first game on the top-line and he was a perfect fit, contributing to
the win. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The Flyers are
approaching the season with different style, which could explain the slow start
they got to the season. But now in full swing, they are exhibiting a great
power play and penalty kill, areas in which they have struggled in the past. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">It was great to
see the Flyers come out of the gate strong for 40 minutes tonight but they can’t
sit back and stop skating once they grab a lead. The most notorious instigators
for the Flyers, Zac Rinaldo, showing restraint and not taking untimely penalties
forcing extra work for the specialty teams is a welcomed change. Thankfully, it
is still early enough in the season for the Flyers to completely change
momentum and make their early season loses a distant memory. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Looking ahead,
the Flyers will take a 5 day break and face off against the Columbus Blue
Jackets on Friday. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-83967217900023719382014-10-29T16:52:00.000-04:002014-10-29T16:56:17.983-04:00Philadelphia Flyers win over LA Kings<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia Flyers showed up and showed out last night
against the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the LA Kings. A few keys to the
game last night was Ray Emery’s outstanding performance in goal and the
strategic/physical play the Flyers exhibited. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Although the Flyers took some time to get their feet
underneath of them this season, they are making smarter plays and fewer of
those frustrating/poorly timed penalties. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Compared
to last season’s start the Flyers are doing extremely well and assuming that
their awkward adjustment period has passed, they have taken to Head Coach Craig
Berube’s guidance and the team seems to finally be clicking. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The fact that Philadelphia finally has a great goaltending tandem
deserves a moment of silence. Steve Mason has been great for the Flyers, no
doubt will continue to be great and keep his starting goaltender position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a relief that their backup goaltender is
outstanding in goal as well and the Flyers couldn’t ask for a better back-up,
who knows his job description and supports the team. Emery only makes Mason
stronger. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last night the Flyers gave us a glimpse of how dangerous
they can be when they play a smarter and harder full 60 minute game. Is this
the start of something new? I sure hope so, as the Flyers have been progressively
getting better. They wrap up this challenging month of October and look to
build more momentum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Flyers have
finally linked together 3 wins and are looking for more, as they take their
show on the road against the Tampa Bay Lightning this Thursday. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Will the Flyers keep up their fast and stronger style of play, or were they just putting on a show for the LA Kings? Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-50278996468697908152014-10-22T23:27:00.001-04:002014-10-22T23:27:09.536-04:00Philadelphia Flyers beat the Pittsburgh Penguins, NO SURPRISE!!!After a devastating loss to the Chicago Blackhawks yesterday, the Philadelphia Flyers went up against their cross-state rivals, Pittsburgh Penguins. This is a team that the Flyers can beat. No matter what the record, the Flyers always seem to play off the emotions, capitalize on mistakes and come out with the W. <br />
<br />
After a shaky first period the Flyers took advantage of the opportunities. The Pittsburgh Penguins lost their strong hold and underestimated the Flyers, whose record was 1-3-2. And, the Flyers made it anything but an easy game for the Penguins as they battled for the win. <br />
<br />
Now 2-3-2, the Flyers desperately need to link together some wins. Throwback to last year October 7, 2013 when the Flyers had the worst start to their season in franchise history, head coach Peter Laviolette was relieved of his coaching duties just 3 games into the season when they were 0-3. I don't think a shake up like that would help the team but it's not completely impossible if they don't turn their season around.<br />
<br />
Positive take away from this game was the players that were scoring. It wasn't so much the top line but the rest of the team stepping up to the plate and bringing home the win, which is what was missing during the first few games of the season.<br />
<br />
All-in-all, I don't really believe that this game was that "all important game" that will drive them to build off and create a great season. I think that they need to play against every team as if they are the Pittsburgh Penguins because that seems to be the only motivator for them to play close to a 60 min game. On paper the Penguins should have been more than capable of handling the Flyers but the Flyers win game after game against the Pens when the odds are not in their favor. <br />
<br />
Where do we go from here? The Flyers have a lot to build from, they have a lot of great aspects to their game but they are still looking to get their first back-to-back win of the season. Their next two games will be challenging and this is where they will show what kind of team they will be this season. On Saturday they will face the Detroit Red Wings followed by the defending Stanley Cup champions on Tuesday. Beat one or both of those teams and that is what I will call "sending a message"Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-52185958734287666702014-10-14T22:43:00.001-04:002014-10-14T22:45:41.358-04:00Philadelphia Flyers: Optomistic but still not winning<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Not the start to the season that the Flyers had in mind, but
they have offered a few glimpses at the type of hockey they hope to play all
season. It’s too soon to press the panic buttons just yet, with a long season
ahead, but it is feeling slightly reminiscent of last season’s losing streak. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Time and time again one player often shoulders the burden for
the Flyers, right now it is Wayne Simmonds with substantial contributions from
Claude Giroux, Mark Streit and Jakub Vorack. The individual contributions are
great and as soon as they link everyone together in a team effort they could add
some confidence with a win. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Flyers
need to harness their energy and control the ice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Ducks have a knack for slowing down plays and controlling
the pace of the game. The Ducks held that strong hold until the Flyers came
back to play hockey during the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period. There is no time like the
present for the Flyers to elevate their game and notch the wins. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have several opportunities to build off of in
order to begin playing the season the way that they want to: Their top-line is
contributing, they notched quality shots on goal and they have a good power
play. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Meanwhile, the Flyers are 0-2-2 and are up against a tough line
up for the remainder of October. As they continue to struggle with their shoot
out skills, it appears that no amount of practice can help that area of their
game. But, the team remains positive and chases after the full 60 minute effort. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you could offer one coaching tip to the team what would it be? </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-18064201744992870142014-06-24T12:32:00.002-04:002014-06-24T12:33:34.643-04:00Who came out on top in the Scott Hartnell trade? <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As we continue to digest yesterday’s news from the
Philadelphia Flyers on the trade of Scott Hartnell for R.J Umberger of the
Columbus Blue Jackets, more clues are coming out on the thought process behind
this trade. Ron Hextall, who had been groomed all season to take over as G.M
finally assumed his role and is making an impact, with the goal of producing a Stanley
Cup team just like he created in L.A. With Hextall at the reigns it seems odd
that the Hartnell trade feels very Paul Holmgren reminiscent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Claude Giroux was shocked Monday morning when he found out
that Scott Hartnell was one of his former teammates. A move out of left field
for the Flyers team, shocking even the captain. The trade was for R.J Umberger,
a player with some similarities to Hartnell, those similarities include age,
goals last season, cap hit and experience they could bring to a team. Where
Hartnell excels above other players is his commitment to the community in which
he plays, he is more active in the community than any other individual player, he
has been a fan favorite and a face for the Flyers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Columbus Blue Jackets undoubtedly are very lucky to have
such a great trade on their hands and they did not have to sacrifice much. R.J
Umberger doesn’t draw as much fan base but he brings an element of speed and versatility
that Hextall is looking for in a player. Umberger, a former Flyer, had asked
the Blue Jackets for a trade because he had been a healthy scratch down the
stretch 2014-14. All signs show that Umberger is actually skating the best of
his career and we can look to Craig Breube playing his in several different
positions this season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With R.J Umberger also comes a 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> round pick in
the 2015 draft which is expected to be deeper than the draft happening this
weekend. Hextall’s plan seems to be focused towards the long term. He is going
to clean up the team, put them in a great position for a few years from now and
then win the Cup. He has the vision to take the team where it needs to go and
he wants to create the cap flexibility to be able to do so. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My feelings about the trade: Thinking of it from a player
stand point for a minute, both teams seemingly did not want the player that
they had. On an individual basis this is great for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hartnell is a great guy and his soul focus is
on winning the Stanley Cup before his retires and the Blue Jackets are very
motivated to do that, so I think this season we are going to see great things
from Hartnell. The Blue Jackets have Hartnell in their winning plan and that is
a perfect place for him to be. A player that is motivated by winning is the
kind that you want on your team. On the other hand, Umberger was a healthy
scratch for the stretch last season (2013-14) there is a reason behind that and
GM Jarmo Kekalainen of the Columbus Blue Jackets might have given a hint to
that when he said:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We had a player who didn't want to play here and had asked
to be moved, so that was money on the sidelines for us. Now we've got a real
good player (Hartnell) and we have clarity to the situation. We know what we
look like heading into these next two weeks, which makes it easier to
proceed."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So was he referring to Umberger. If so, all we can hope is
that the move re-energizes Umberger to want to win with the Flyers. He is
seemingly in the best shape of his career so hopefully he makes that kind of
impact with the team. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">From a Flyers stand point this is such a bad trade. They had one of their top guys, who is a face of the team, great attitude/motivated to
win, respected and looked up to by his teammates, fully committed to the Flyers
and Philadelphia and they just downgraded to Umberger. That’s the business side
of the game but it’s just such a sad move on their part. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hartnell was such an integral part of the team,
they will not be able to find someone that can fill his skates on and off the
ice. Hopefully the gamble on the 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> round pick in 2015 works out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Columbus Blue Jacket should be over the moon. I don’t
think I am at all the bias when I make that statement. Hartnell has made the
most of this situation and he is with a very motivated team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is bringing them valuable experience and
leadership. He’s motivated and wants to win a cup before he retires and when
Hartnell is motivated he gets things done. The Blue Jackets came out on top in
this trade. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This trade rests on the shoulders of Ron Hextall. Everyone
had been wondering if Hartnell had requested this move and that was just not
the case at all. Hartnell loves Philly and even in being asked to move on he is
still doing what is best for the Philadelphia Flyers. I am dreading the Hextall
regime already and hoping for some kind of saving grace soon like resigning Ray
Emery as back- up goaltender. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-81932138209338897872014-04-30T08:18:00.001-04:002014-04-30T08:19:24.105-04:00Surprise performance from the Flyers leads the series to Game 7 <br />
Much like their late start to the regular season, third period come backs
and their last minute playoff push, the Philadelphia Flyers second wind has
finally arrived. It is not too late and the momentum is welcomed in a series
that will now be decided during Game 7. The New York Rangers will
take home ice in a game everyone has to win but only one team will be moving on
tonight. Will we finally see some over time from this series?<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Last night, on home ice facing an elimination, the Flyers surprised
everyone as they held as much as a 4 goal lead going into the third period. The
Rangers started off the game dominating but by the end of 40 minutes looked
disjointed and unorganized, they looked tired and were not playing as a
team. The difference of play between Game 5 and Game 6 was like night and
day for both teams. After a very disappointing Game 5 that showed little
promise for the Flyers, the comeback kids have risen and will take this series
to Game 7. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The Flyers have slowly regained their goal scorers. Claude Giroux
netted his first goal during Game 5 and Wayne Simmonds made huge contributions
in Game 6 with 3 goals. I think that when the top players are scoring for the
Flyers it adds to their confidence, instead of building the frustration they
get when they cannot find the back of the net. With Steve Mason's huge
sprawling saves in goal the team is set to win Game 7 and move on. But, before
we think about that let’s talk about what they have to do in Game 7: Keep it
simple. Play the game. Exploit the Rangers weaknesses. Up until now the Rangers
have been a solid competitor. Last night we saw a different side of the Rangers
and with their confidence deflated the Flyers need to go into Madison Square
Garden and dominate. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Fingers crossed. <o:p></o:p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-23601001033893947822014-04-25T23:28:00.000-04:002014-04-25T23:29:27.491-04:00Game 4: The return of Steve Mason in time to tie the series at 2<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The man, myth and legend returned to his rightful place in
net tonight for Game 4 in Philadelphia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Steve Mason had been out for two weeks, seemingly not missing a beat
last night as he returned to block 37 shots and help tie the series. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Veteran Ray Emery had been holding it down and
kept the Flyers alive in this series, while Mason was recovering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having their number one man back in goal gave
the Flyers the added confidence that could now serve as their launching pad to win
the series. The way that Mason defenses the net is outstanding, he has been able to reclaim his career probably largely in part to the veteran that has been backing him up all season. Emery is largely important to the team as well but when it comes to incredible saves Mason is the guy that has shocked and awed us and has gotten the job done. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Looking forward to Game 5 in New York, the Flyers need to
continue to build on the play that they exhibited during Game 4. During the
playoffs they need to play better and better each game if they have their eye
on advancing. I look forward to a line shuffle by Chief, his changes usually
result in opportunities for their top guys to score goals. Speaking of their
top scorers ,there has not been too much action from their top guys and all eyes
are on Captain Claude Giroux waiting for a goal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think that Game 5 is when Giroux will notch
a goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have to keep it simple and stay patient on Sunday
if they want to claim a win on the road. Mason has been a huge part of the
teams wins all season and now that he is back in net he will be the reason that
the Flyers are successful but they cannot only rest on him. All the elements
need to be in place to make it past Round 1. In past games the Flyers seemed to
try to spot correct some of their weaknesses instead of playing and even keeled
game. The Flyers need to have everything working at once: good defense, puck
control, great goaltending and keeping it simple for 60 minutes. They have yet
to play a 60 minute game which is something they struggled with all season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With Grossman’s future unclear, as he was taken out of the
game with a lower body injury, there could be some additional changes coming to the line-up
for Sunday. The big question is who should they put in for Grossman, I think that Hal Gill would be a great choice. Right now the Flyers have the momentum and if they play their game,
they should be successful. Regardless of what is to come, the Flyers have a top
of the line ace in goal for them and if they give him the space and the defense
they could take it all the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-33455283373295100642014-04-21T09:16:00.001-04:002014-04-21T09:24:16.796-04:00Game 2: Flyers beat the Rangers to tie the series<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After taking the detrimental penalty in Game 1 that doomed
the Flyers to a defeat, Jason Akeson was a major part of the win last night
during game 2. Now officially a Flyers come back kid, he tied the game during the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period and salvaged his reputation with the fans. Although
the Rangers dominated in the beginning with classic puck control and a strong
power play unit, the Flyers applied pressure and played the defense. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Leading from the top, the Flyers top line got in on the
action, building up their team’s confidence. In the 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> period with
a goal by the top line, Voracek helped built the momentum, as he notched the go
ahead goal with the help of Giroux-Hartnell. Showing great defense, the Flyers
went onto claim their first lead of the game and first win, tying the series. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers are most dangerous when they are determined to
win, and Game 2 was everything that Game 1 should have been. I think that by
getting their first play-off game under their belt and dealing with the initial
jitters the veterans have been able to help calm the hungry team and focus in on
their goals on a game by game basis. Last night the Flyers top line was
performing, they were working together and hungry for the win. They exhibited
some great defense and hopefully will build off of that in the coming days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The take away from this game is that: The series is just getting
started, the Flyers still need better puck control and less time in the box. As
they claim their first road win during this series, hopefully they have rattled
Henrik Lunquist enough to post more wins this week against the Rangers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Rangers are going to come hard on the fore-check,
control the puck and dominate power play opportunities. By now, the Rangers are
fairly consistent with how they play and the Flyers can use that to their
advantage. The Flyers have ebbs and flows to their play and can rise up and
surprise when they really are determined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With Ray Emery posting a 50/50 split in the absence of Steve
Mason should he continue to start in goal? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Potentially Mason is expected to be healthy
enough to play on Tuesday and with a chance at a serious run at the Cup should
they let Mason rest up for more challenging competitors to come. I think that
Mason has been out of goal for long enough and if he is good to go he needs to
get in on the action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too much rest is
not a good thing, being in goal and blocking shots is going to be the best way
for Mason to prepare for future games. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-42090456131235315162014-04-18T16:54:00.000-04:002014-04-18T16:57:09.908-04:00Philadelphia Flyers fall way behind New York Rangers in Game 1<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With a fresh opportunity for new beginnings, the
Philadelphia Flyers took the ice last night in Madison Square Garden. Although,
they were already starting Game 1 playing their back-up goaltender, a hopeful
team stood tall during an evenly matched first period. But that’s where the
good news ends. After a tied first period they lost momentum in the second.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The nail in the coffin came from a penalty
taken by Jason Akeson, which gave the New York Rangers a perfect opening and go
ahead to score 2 goals during their power play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Rangers pulled away with the
lead during the third period and the Flyers did not have the discipline nor the
control to be able to catch them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Game 1 for the Flyers was not too horrible. Minus the Akeson
mishap, turn overs and lack of puck control, the Flyers showed some promise
during the first period. In the coming games the Flyers will need to make a conscious
effort to stay out of the penalty box. The Rangers’ power play may only be 15<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
in the league but there is a lot of talent out there on the ice and the Rangers
were able to beat the Flyers last night. Serving a whopping 1,180 minutes in the
penalty box during the regular season, the Flyers generally have a hard time
staying out of the box, so when they are shorthanded they will be looking to
Mason-Emery to come up big in net and the dynamic duo of Sean Couturier and
Matt Read. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Claude Giroux is the backbone of the Flyers and there wasn’t
much of a performance from him last night. Now that they have Game 1 under
their belt G needs to come out big. As soon as he brings the energy and the
momentum the team will do likewise. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the biggest challenges between the Flyers and a goal is
the Gold medal goaltender blocking their shots: King Henrik, a consistent and
confident goaltender who has gone 8-0-0 against the Flyers at Mason Square
Garden. The Flyers will need to break that wall down and beat him in order to
stay alive during the post-season. Lundquist is good and the Flyers will have
to do their best to break down his confidence. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last night, the goaltender in net would not have changed the
outcome of the game for the Flyers. But, Steven Mason is magic and could have
had a big influence. Mas has reclaimed his career this season, with a team that
has been known as “where goaltenders come to die” I have complete confidence in
Mas and it is unfortunate that he is out right now, but we have a veteran
backup who brings playoff experience and all hope is with him now until Mas is
healthy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now that everyone is off to the races, the Flyers will need
to come back in a big was during Game 2. If the Flyers can’t perform better and
they revisit their start from the regular season, they are in for a short
post-season. Cross your fingers!! See you on Sunday! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-21889945595086985982014-04-15T10:22:00.003-04:002014-04-16T13:51:27.688-04:00Final notes from the 2013-14 regular season: Philadelphia Flyers<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
<o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Over the final
days, hockey fans have relished in the additional minutes of free hockey as the
regular season concludes. In several games that I have watched over the last
few days, teams like: the Flyers, Avalanche and others have gone into
exhilarating overtimes during this regular season that ‘just won’t quit’, as a
hockey analyst proclaimed this weekend. Several of these passionate final games
were deemed of less importance and would not affect the playoff standings, but
the players proved that no one likes to lose, as they vehemently took the ice
and gave everyone a preview of the playoffs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
The Philadelphia Flyers have astonishingly made the playoffs
and are now prepping for their postseason. But, this is not a surprise to
everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their fearless leader, Captain
Claude Giroux never lost sight of their end goal, as he made this audacious
claim in late October: ‘We will make the playoffs’. At the time the Flyers sat
at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, at the bottom of the league with their
top scorers not performing, they had tallied a low 11 points and their record
was 1-7-0. An epidemic early in the season were coaching changes and the Flyers
were not immune, as they dropped three games they also said good-bye to Coach Peter
Laviolette and Assistant Coach Craig Breube got a promotion. Just 6 days into a
195 day season, the immediate outcome was not overwhelming success, it took
some time to turn the season around and it took 15 games for Giroux to net his
first goal of the season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The critics
were brash but Giroux proved why he wears the C on his chest and he took his
team to the top, after all the only direction the Flyers had to go was up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
Now the Flyers start fresh in the postseason, facing the New
York Rangers on Thursday at Madison Square Garden. After overcoming a season of
adversity the comeback kids have had the final say and they will be taking that
energy into the post-season. On Thursday we are looking at a familiar lineup
from a Flyers team that has remained fairly healthy all season long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Zac Rinaldo will be back from his 4-game
suspension and Steve Mason who left after a 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period mishap in the
Flyers game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday will be playoff
ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> [Edit: Mason will be side-lined for Game 1 and Emery will start in Goal] </span>The Mason-Emery tandem goalie
team is a recipe for success and with a healthy team everyone is focused going
into Madison Square Garden on Thursday. <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
Reflections on the regular season from my point of view:
While I saw signs of Peter Laviolette’s early departure from the team, I do not
think that it was completely necessary. Craig Berube stepped up and was able to
make effective line changes all season long that padded the success of the
team. But, I think the foundation for success was always in the locker room and
once the Flyers figured it out and wanted it enough the momentum turned around.
I could have never endorsed Giroux’s early season claims that they were headed
to the playoffs as they sat at the bottom of the league. First because it was
too early to tell and second because I thought that he was just doing his job,
it would have never been right for him to be less than encouraging, motivated
and optimist of his team. All in all, the Flyers have laid out some lessons for
us to learn from this season: Lesson 1 Never get in a fight with a Boxer,
Lesson 2 Keep your eye on the prize, Lesson 3 When you work together you can
win. At the end of the day hockey brings communities and families together,
even despite rivalries. Young athletes are looking up to these NHL players and
I think that through a few bumps the Flyers set a great example this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
I will be at my favorite bar with my Dad on Thursday, proudly
wearing my Flyers shirt, downing some beer and eating wings as I celebrate the
post season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Win or lose I couldn’t be
more proud of the athleticism, sportsmanship and motivation of this Flyers team
this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
For the 2013-14 regular season this is The Amateur Fan
signing off. Welcome to the postseason. <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></o:p> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-73746969252179426772014-04-07T21:08:00.000-04:002014-04-07T21:08:05.265-04:00Big win last night for the Philadelphia Flyers over the Buffalo Sabres
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia Flyers were able to hold off the Buffalo
Sabres long enough to notch a win last night. The Sabres sit in the 8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
seed of the Atlantic division.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a
four game losing streak for the Flyers, line changes by Head Coach Craig Berube
had positive effects on team chemistry and were the major contributors to the
win. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Steve Mason had a confidence boost last night as the Flyers
seemingly aim their sights towards the playoffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Recently a weak link for the Flyers, although
he has been great in goal all season, there is no guarantee Mason will start in
goal for the remaining games. With four games left we might see an appearance
by Ray Emery to give Mason a rest before the playoffs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Zac Rinaldo sniped his second goal of the season but minutes
later left the game on a penalty that will also bench him for the rest of the
regular season. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that Rinaldo has received
a 4 game suspension could all that positive chemistry change? Every time
Rinaldo steps on the ice the energy changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He finishes checks, applies pressure and is an integral part of the
team. It is very unfortunate that such a suspension happened at this time in
the season, especially since Rinaldo has been playing so well. Hopefully this
lets him rest up for playoffs and puts him in a great frame of mind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Although the Flyers did not play a perfect game last night
they did claim those very important points that are keeping them mere steps in front
of the Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets have launched themselves up in the
standings and they are knocking at the door, looking to edge the Flyers out of
their playoff spot. With one wrong move the Flyers could slip out of their
playoff spot. In the coming days I think the Blue Jackets will split wins and losses
during their last games and the Flyers need to win 2 out of their last 4 games
to stay ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think the playoffs look very promising for the Flyers but
just as they work to claim that official spot in the coming days the real work begins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will need to apply the pressure, get
pucks deep and never let up during the playoffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A more consistent competitive edge that we
haven’t seen the Flyers have on a steady basis all season. If they can figure
it out, there may be hope for a playoff run but more than likely enjoy the
first few games and a slightly extended season for the Flyers this year. Only
time will tell how the end of the regular season will shake out, with everyone’s
eyes on the playoffs we could still be in for a surprise in the very
competitive Metropolitan division. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-6851405099220261982014-04-02T14:50:00.001-04:002014-04-02T14:50:38.045-04:00Philadelphia Flyers: Headed to the playoffs or not?
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">An improvement from the beginning of this season, the
Philadelphia Flyers have come a long way from the bottom of their division. But
it may not be enough, as the Flyers struggle to keep their head above water and
in the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> seed of the Metropolitan division. The Philadelphia
Flyers continue to fall short as they push towards the playoffs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Facing fierce competition leading up to the playoffs, the
Flyers lack the competitive edge that Stanley cup contending teams possess. Although
the fairly healthy team has been playing well, their recent loses have left
them slip to 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> seed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
they sit only a few points above the Blue Jackets and Capitals, they have a
bulls-eye on their back to be knocked out of a playoff seat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With only 11 days left in the regular season the Flyers have
7 games remaining and will need to start consistently winning in order to stay
in a playoff spot. Although every game is anyone’s game to win, even if the
Flyers manage to stay alive long enough to make it into the playoffs they will
only be around for a round or two, at most. I do not expect that the Flyers can
compete with those teams like the Kings, Avalanche, etc. that will be around to
play for the cup. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This season started off shaky, with fans fearful of the
Flyers sitting at the bottom of the division with a Captain that could not
score. Thankfully that changed and the Flyers surged into the top of the division
bouncing between 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> and 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> seed. With more promise than
last season the Flyers appear to be headed to the playoffs but building the
team back up to become Stanley cup champions could be a few seasons out, as
they will face the fierce competition from the west. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-30729142504928015092014-03-19T15:21:00.002-04:002014-03-19T15:21:13.324-04:00Race to the finish line: Philadelphia Flyers
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia Flyers are bulldozing their way through the
remainder of their season, kicking butt and taking names as they’ve toped two
hot teams in the past few days. Beating their cross state rivals twice in
home-and-home games over the weekend, the Pittsburgh Penguins, who lead the
Metropolitan Division. Also last night, clinching the W over the defending
Stanley Cup Champions, the Chicago Blackhawks. With only 4 weeks left in the
season are the orange and black going to ride this winning streak right into
the playoffs?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers tend to plateau right when things are going well.
Whether from nerves or over confidence the Flyers are bound to have a
disjointed game in the coming weeks as they face off against some though competition.
There is no one formula to use against every team but if they can keep their
opponents at an arm’s length like they did last night, it’s going to be challenging
to get scored on. A lot of credit goes to Laperriere who has crafted a solid
penalty kill team. For a team like the Flyers who at times take questionable
penalties, a strong pk unit is going to benefit them in the long run. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If the Flyers are looking for a strong push into the
playoffs they are going to have to perform a lot like they have been in the
last three games. Last night Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews said,” They did
all the little things they needed to do to win the game. If you ask me, they
deserve to win it – and we didn’t.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With the Metropolitan division’s ever fluid standings, the
Flyers have been able to hold onto 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> place but they have the
Rangers, Blue Jackets, Capitals and Devils nipping at their heels. With one
misstep Claude Giroux and company could be watching another post season from
their couches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have not been able separate themselves from the
pack this season which makes every point important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every day is a new challenge and every game
is a big game. The Flyers are going to have to continue consistently doing all the
little things that add up to the BIG wins if they want to continue on this up
swing. As for the next 4 weeks, I do not think that the Flyers are going to
give us a perfect finish but I think they will land in 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> seed in
the Metropolitan division, which is just good enough to head to the post
season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is always that chance they
totally fall to the bottom of the pack since this division is so close. There
is no time to lose or take their foot off the gas as they race to the finish
line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-81761445728222311952014-01-31T16:31:00.001-05:002014-04-16T15:22:02.622-04:00My Three Favorite Things of this WeekWe may know why Alex Ovechkin did not participate in the Capitals optional skate in Columbus on Wednesday. It appears that he and some teammate were too busy playing ball hockey in the lockerroom. That right! Ovi dressed in Michal Neuvirth's new pads in a game of locker room ball hockey. But, this was not the first time that Ovi dawned the goaltending gear. The last time he suited up he was defending the Caps net in practice with make-a-wish kid Sam Jacobson.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MTtVEqp12oo" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As the 2014 Sochi Olympics draw near there have been tons of announcements; from team rosters to team Captains but my most favorite has been hockey equipment of the Sochi Olympics. Bauer fans listen up! Back in December the hockey equipment manufacture Bauer introduced "OD1N". This new high-tech line of equipment will outfit a few elite hockey players at the winter games. Bauer was able to lighten the skates, protective gear and the goalie equipment by one-third. Through a combination of tech-friendly composite materials, compression-molded foam and 3D optical scanning to personalize the equipment these six players wear has been compared to the outfits of superhero's.
Keep your eye open for these players at the 2014 Sochi Olympics to check out the equipment: Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks/Team Canada), Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks/Team USA), Nicklas Backstrom (Washington Capitals/Team Sweden, Alex Ovechkin (Washington Capitals/Team Russia, Claude Giroux (Philadelphia Flyers/Team Canada) and goaltender Henrik Lundqvist (New York Rangers/Team Sweden).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggH25LIN6qsFl2lOZ0j5qYZKVd85dU0deWITaThZcS4QAOc7aDKaWs-fjUfL2aNu0sClJo5v4jDJ-kYsxpeBCQLycdTW4Rl6zdxuujg9HzgEvq2YiJlfEaRAgl43aS0MFQjZlI-9zIjjCD/s1600/bauer-equipment-640x576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggH25LIN6qsFl2lOZ0j5qYZKVd85dU0deWITaThZcS4QAOc7aDKaWs-fjUfL2aNu0sClJo5v4jDJ-kYsxpeBCQLycdTW4Rl6zdxuujg9HzgEvq2YiJlfEaRAgl43aS0MFQjZlI-9zIjjCD/s1600/bauer-equipment-640x576.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Last but not least my favorite Philadelphia Flyer Zac Rinaldo returned to the Flyers bench on Thursday after being out for 10 games with a high-ankle sprain. Rinaldo always brings high energy, head coach Craig Berube is looking for him to watch his hitting, being such a powerful player he ends up in the penalty box far too often. Rinaldo began the night on Thursday with 101 penalty minutes and a minus 12 rating. Rinaldo has been looking good all season and his biggest down fall is his lack of discipline that comes at the most in opportune times. The time out of the game for Rinaldo apparently gave him time to reflect and he came back knowing what he had to do and focused. Glad to have Rinaldo back on the ice, even if he's stirring the pot. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNbntHP5eA4x6Z_BqXFJueX9ZHsMmouBNU7fOfKAUIoKO16DG59TrzzlzysTYtlLM-fEcD457N6Vivs0tlNygcUdvNh951f1rdSdqsP3JBr9Ncn2jWUoCsE4W4OEIkIKVyWvNEu_DrFIF/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsvK8iOuNhCpnfZ80VepRMPmmF8CRgHfIP6Cp9fQeLDfTw3vcHr6TYh2Om55Cc3-GqKqmCDUhFbMAYLPaBB4GJ9CXPvB0CpoQs9d-6SPu3mb3iiVxmu4RkSWr5-qXPJqLYKGKCFviHjq9/s1600/dynamic_resize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsvK8iOuNhCpnfZ80VepRMPmmF8CRgHfIP6Cp9fQeLDfTw3vcHr6TYh2Om55Cc3-GqKqmCDUhFbMAYLPaBB4GJ9CXPvB0CpoQs9d-6SPu3mb3iiVxmu4RkSWr5-qXPJqLYKGKCFviHjq9/s1600/dynamic_resize.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-22838894439304169542014-01-17T14:11:00.002-05:002014-04-16T14:53:41.828-04:00My Three Favorite things this weekCheck out my three favorite things from this week: <br />
<br />
The Washington Capitals are taking fan experience to the next level with Google Glass. By now everyone has heard of the new technology but how would your experience be enhanced if you could be hands free but still hooked into your device? The Capitals will be the first pro team to launch Skybox Google Glass coming soon to the Washington Capitals home games.<br />
<br />
Check out what happened at the San Jose Sharks v. Washington Capitals game on January 14th right off of the face-off during the first period between Mike Brown and Aaron Valpatti. These boys kept the fists flying as they made contact with each other over and over again. A good old fashion beating, that ended in blood soaked jerseys. These boys get NHL best fight of the week.
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NWU-AFV9D5E" width="560"></iframe>
Pulling heart strings all over the world Children’s wish recipient Braden Nienaber tossed out Buffalo Sabres captain Steve Ott from the ceremonial puck drop. This is what hockey is all about, check out this super cute clip:
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/vZc9SMLoD84" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
For more from Erica follow @TheAmateurFan on twitter Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-65006062356277264782014-01-09T10:22:00.000-05:002014-01-09T10:22:16.888-05:00Don't underestimate the Fly Boys
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia Flyers have had a rocky start to the season,
game after game they struggled to compete. But now in the New Year they are
just flourishing. Their games are far from perfect and they still have a lot of
work to do but when it comes down to the wire they have been coming up with the
W time and time again. During the first half of the season it seemed as if the
Flyers would fall to the bottom of the rankings and never really be heard from
again. But, they have surged up through their division and have been holding on
to 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> place right above the New York Rangers/ Washington Capitals
who are right on their heels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have little chance of catching up to the
Pittsburgh Penguins who lead the division with 65 points while the Flyers sit at
50, the Rangers at 47 and Capitals at 46. But, the Flyers are slowly gaining confidence
and raising their level of competition. The Penguins underestimated the Flyers
earlier this season and the Flyers were able to beat them during a time when
the Flyers weren’t able to string together wins. The Flyers are not a team that
anyone should be underestimating, especially after last night’s performance
where they broke their first period slump and took advantage of the first 20
minutes playing against the Montreal Canadiens. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Right now, half way through the season the Flyers are just
figuring it out and I think that they will be able to take this surge straight
into the playoffs. With Claude Giroux not making the cut for Canadian’s Olympic
team he won’t have distractions to hold him back. A hand full of Flyers have
been named to represent their respective countries at the Olympics this year:
Jakub Voracek will represent the Czech Republic for the first time which will
boost his performance upon return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mark
Streit, an Olympic veteran will be gearing up for his 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> trip to
represent Switzerland. Youngster Michael Raffl has been named to Austria’s
Olympic team. And, last night we saw this Olympian notch an assist on every
goal scored by the Flyers, Andrej Meszaros will be representing Slovakia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The nearly 2 week break for the Olympics comes at a key time
for the Flyers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they can continue
their performance level, enjoy a break or a momentum boost for those competing
in the Olympics, this could just add to how dangerous this team could become. It’s
always a good feeling for a team when a D-man like Zac Rinaldo scores, he does
his job well and scoring a goal last night was the cherry on top. The Flyers
are not trying to become 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> in their division, all they have to do
is get into the playoffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have
already beat the Pittsburgh Penguins, so if they can get in they have a
realistic chance at the cup. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This team is not done surprising us. In the next few weeks
they will be staying right above all of the competition. The key to their win
last night was that they took advantage of the 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often the Flyers have come onto the ice flat
footed and blew the first period. But, their sloppiness could be their down
fall, as seen last night when they had a few bad line changes which gave way to
a goal for the Canadiens. The Flyers need to take the lead early, surge through
a full 60 minute game and they will win time and time again. From the worst
start in years to 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> seeded in their division and a record 10 game
winning streak at home, the Flyers are ones to watch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For more from Erica follow <a href="https://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> on twitter and sauce
a like to<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank"> The Amateur Fan</a> on facebook<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-68243252720469298242014-01-05T18:48:00.001-05:002014-01-05T18:48:05.767-05:00Flyers skate into the New Year as a HOT team<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a great road trip through Canada served as their launching pad into the New Year, the Philadelphia Flyers have not been a disappointment. Seeded 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> in the Metropolitan Division, this is a spot no one<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>but their fearless captain Claude Giroux would have put the Flyers in after their poor performance at the beginning of the season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Giroux never lost faith in his team and that showed last night against the Phoenix Coyotes when he netted a security goal late in the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period to win the game 5-3.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally they are looking like a team, learning how to win and even how to come back in the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Chief took a timeout, gave us a little shit and since then we started to play better,” said Voracek. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A timely time out and a perfectly placed fight by Rosehill vs. Bissonnette gave the Flyers the momentum change that they needed to turn the game around. All the pieces began to come together for the team after the time out, a game that they started flat footed and a momentum change that they Flyers were able to grab onto and use to their advantage. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BashI3QX0KA" width="560"></iframe><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We are learning how to win and we’re learning how to stay in games and we’re learning how to turn things around. When you do that you can steal points here and there and it was a big one for us. Good way to end the road trip,” said Rosehill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have catapulted themselves into the top 3 of the Metropolitan Division and everyone will be looking for them to stay there for the rest of the season bouncing between 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> and 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> place. Right now we could be looking at the 3 teams that will be heading to the post-season. The comeback performances that this Flyers team has demonstrated makes them look like a completely different team than the team on the ice earlier this season. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully, they can maintain this rhythm and steal more points. The Flyers will be facing another Metropolitan Division team on Tuesday, not far from home as they travel to New Jersey to play the Devils. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The Flyers need to come in ready and rested on Tuesday. They need to take control early on and keep their foot on the gas. It's a winnable game for the team if they keep the momentum going. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For more from Erica follow <a href="http://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> on twitter</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; tab-stops: 80.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-13362385020177276722014-01-02T11:47:00.003-05:002014-01-02T11:53:57.760-05:00NHL players say the darndest things on Twitter: New Year's 2014 edition <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lately I have been fascinated with what NHL players post on
twitter during the holidays. So, early New Year’s morning as I scrolled through
my twitter feed a few of those types of tweets caught my attention. A total of
11 games were played in the NHL on New Year’s Eve and whether winner or loser,
it was New Year’s Eve and time to ring in 2014. I don’t follow many players so
I did some investigation and found the best tweets from some of the more active
social media aficionado’s. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Philadelphia Flyers, were winners and Jakub Voracek (@jachobe)
had some strong thoughts to share after they extended their winning streak to
three while on their road trip. It’s no secret that the Flyers started off with
a pretty poor season but they have been able to turn it around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been a miracle and they have now
clinched the 3</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><sup>rd</sup> seed in the Metropolitan division, only 2 points
ahead on the competition. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These were the
only thoughts he shared on New Year’s Eve, I hope the #hugewin helped him have
a great night!</span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23SetzFFKImjGT8ttZLAwpKs9vfN_A8TNKRGkgbw_4nO6UxUS5dnbYoPRlq17WIGn53I9qwDJxyk0PFv2s3SbT6gFSInjKXV50NCCzMi70bRlToZHzVEBCRePzP6OyCgk943ynL4E3Gvw/s1600/Voracek.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23SetzFFKImjGT8ttZLAwpKs9vfN_A8TNKRGkgbw_4nO6UxUS5dnbYoPRlq17WIGn53I9qwDJxyk0PFv2s3SbT6gFSInjKXV50NCCzMi70bRlToZHzVEBCRePzP6OyCgk943ynL4E3Gvw/s320/Voracek.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next I bring you Erik Karlsson (@ErikKarlsson65). The Ottawa
Senators did not play on New Year’s Eve, they played on New Year’s Eve eve and
they won. That win did not seem to influence Karlsson’s tweet of “Fuck 2013”
which he has since deleted from a little tweet remorse. After making it to the
second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs earlier in 2013, the Senators now sit
in 6<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> seed of the Atlantic division and are 10 points out of a spot
in the playoffs. Karlsson has also struggled with long term injuries, only a
few guesses on why his 2013 sucked so much. Hope this guy has a better 2014! </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2YWK4_fPFqiJQmSLTjyAMshcYdqq5PSeoQVIezwjjkYxpJATNfj0dFuidcvjfrnkKUrNzpYGY1vNdkgOMpfX1jgENHWJvvMX9WB4OzzN7i598VQH2mirPXiGUB2IjNB3BMVAOllX88Cs/s1600/Karlsson+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2YWK4_fPFqiJQmSLTjyAMshcYdqq5PSeoQVIezwjjkYxpJATNfj0dFuidcvjfrnkKUrNzpYGY1vNdkgOMpfX1jgENHWJvvMX9WB4OzzN7i598VQH2mirPXiGUB2IjNB3BMVAOllX88Cs/s320/Karlsson+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnjviDUMm43MwvERHrUhAHMr3HPEyvdabifJ0wVDCMxrjKBmjlYFvCMbqn1cEdJD-ni7HHl3XOASkKZRLNb7VV9zl5Jtat53eDC7orx_GM4UOOxaHZP4DFU3m9H9JYg147PCMqQlQAQQb/s1600/Karlsson+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnjviDUMm43MwvERHrUhAHMr3HPEyvdabifJ0wVDCMxrjKBmjlYFvCMbqn1cEdJD-ni7HHl3XOASkKZRLNb7VV9zl5Jtat53eDC7orx_GM4UOOxaHZP4DFU3m9H9JYg147PCMqQlQAQQb/s320/Karlsson+2.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bryan Bickell (@bbicks29), left winger for the 2013 Stanley Cup
Champions Chicago Blackhawks has had a great 2013. A key player on the Blackhawks
team, his strong play helped the team hoist the Stanley Cup in June. Bickell
registered 17 points and 9 goals, including the game- tying goal in Game 6 of
the Stanley Cup finals. Bickell re-signed a 4 year contract with the Blackhawks
for $16 million. The Blackhawks won their last game before the New Year and are at the top of the Central Division and looks like they will be headed to the play offs again in 2014. If that wasn’t enough to make his 2013 an amazing year,
Bickell wed his longtime girlfriend Amanda Caskenette in August. All that being
said, his tweet is on point:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKiQF7cG0H7sLGSyO_et33vm5OAEzuBjFcTXcZNaldX42V_PR-IS2rQhiYbB4o9m32sU79YpGbmBuE8ILVFaWSbtJ91LAzxpMdPZkJuMEe0eQ7_tlbScGkyCr07QvcksvjSJ7eDIiyyDP/s1600/Bickell.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKiQF7cG0H7sLGSyO_et33vm5OAEzuBjFcTXcZNaldX42V_PR-IS2rQhiYbB4o9m32sU79YpGbmBuE8ILVFaWSbtJ91LAzxpMdPZkJuMEe0eQ7_tlbScGkyCr07QvcksvjSJ7eDIiyyDP/s320/Bickell.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Teammate Andrew Shaw (@shwa5er), also still beaming from the Stanley Cup win and the Blackhawks continued success in 2013 echoed Bickell on New Years day with a tweet:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_8dfKQCVmXrow4gKTNbB89x5ir-I50UEJ-5LzJvRuhKOODa-PO4wDzi2FMmYMjl3f2eC1ofLKtAJjQdKKNhaLZbQHWgvW3YenOPFgZfqf0W7hDMJDkLgBZza1QAaJ23O8seQOJkQRvXR/s1600/shaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_8dfKQCVmXrow4gKTNbB89x5ir-I50UEJ-5LzJvRuhKOODa-PO4wDzi2FMmYMjl3f2eC1ofLKtAJjQdKKNhaLZbQHWgvW3YenOPFgZfqf0W7hDMJDkLgBZza1QAaJ23O8seQOJkQRvXR/s320/shaw.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Matt Kassian (@kassassination) must be a very optimistic guy
or just a great sense of humor from the sound of his twitter handle. Also a
member of the Ottawa Senators, Kassian’s New Year’s Eve tweets were positive,
he was maybe even making fun of himself a little but savoring some last minute
2013 goals. He was definitely picking on a not so happy Erik Karlsson a
little who debuted in the background of his New Year’s Eve photo.</span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnqUOkB3COTDqBaV5r5zly_mYy0O09aFDvRYs760MjbUIiZVzw60H45Oe-NQFIY7TlHmJx-jE4ecdHJFunIDPUbR57zUPmUSvZUEP8iw3qrS-2GZNs8LTeUNCzB9D_n5IAoGZ5tDdzmTm/s1600/Kassian+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnqUOkB3COTDqBaV5r5zly_mYy0O09aFDvRYs760MjbUIiZVzw60H45Oe-NQFIY7TlHmJx-jE4ecdHJFunIDPUbR57zUPmUSvZUEP8iw3qrS-2GZNs8LTeUNCzB9D_n5IAoGZ5tDdzmTm/s320/Kassian+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuOevYVc0ttT3NDVZxfdd4Gl25iL3Xim-fLOFjuYqPswJG0shuYm-vjQNKMNLK5Wvp22lCnTPMll_zHUc5MlIC6oZnrJ2clrcMxNe-_v-qOy-9_HmQ4AS31Tn_3XXE8zfOoindy6tp_OR/s1600/Kassian+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuOevYVc0ttT3NDVZxfdd4Gl25iL3Xim-fLOFjuYqPswJG0shuYm-vjQNKMNLK5Wvp22lCnTPMll_zHUc5MlIC6oZnrJ2clrcMxNe-_v-qOy-9_HmQ4AS31Tn_3XXE8zfOoindy6tp_OR/s320/Kassian+2.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">As several teams were playing on New Year's Eve, the Phoenix Coyotoes (@phoenixcoyotes) tweeted Happy New Year's post win with a photo of the team and fans celebrating. </span></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrDn9oJVQ3J0Vn41CTk6glpHmGbHRbFFjyhVTsZZ3f-0NPN-KnmbyLXxesyTL9s4g0yvJAC8Z5_NYOKmgK1IrhyzciUwNB_KmCmkts_Gx0r7oWr-IHWqM23ob7dT-MaCwY7sCVoFmkgkX/s1600/Coyotes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrDn9oJVQ3J0Vn41CTk6glpHmGbHRbFFjyhVTsZZ3f-0NPN-KnmbyLXxesyTL9s4g0yvJAC8Z5_NYOKmgK1IrhyzciUwNB_KmCmkts_Gx0r7oWr-IHWqM23ob7dT-MaCwY7sCVoFmkgkX/s320/Coyotes.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">In transit during the biggest party of the year, these St. Louis Blues players were not going to let New Year's Eve pass without celebration. Ian Cole (@ICole28) tweeted a photo from his airplane seat with a teammate.</span> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElLyFT7FYGhEe4Wh52s1Wf38_kjdRmZhk8lVwJF7aUoIKB_gUG4wrCy_GExUPY56gAZzP6baAFO2h3Rwl64damB0VTIoVFIrfwIxEFbKJFCmW1Km39WmSh7ztA5SHdmYCFKIpCVJYidxY/s1600/Cole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElLyFT7FYGhEe4Wh52s1Wf38_kjdRmZhk8lVwJF7aUoIKB_gUG4wrCy_GExUPY56gAZzP6baAFO2h3Rwl64damB0VTIoVFIrfwIxEFbKJFCmW1Km39WmSh7ztA5SHdmYCFKIpCVJYidxY/s320/Cole.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Funny man TJ Oshie (@OSH74) has a lot to look forward to in 2014. Recently posting a photo of his girl getting a "Christmas Utlrasound" and being named to the US Olympic team on New Years day, 2014 will be filled with excitement for him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqrG9VIWf-7CcFeqD4JcSBY-T35opyWkdqu5px1mxiyKo-AOooi5VCXeg9wfzAhMW9RABug9klvQ1B6XGH0OuKmFhe85X0V8rIqeraNrm-ZHXCaQp6yYHqpJgxmgXAUkzmYpz2hqzK-og/s1600/Oshie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqrG9VIWf-7CcFeqD4JcSBY-T35opyWkdqu5px1mxiyKo-AOooi5VCXeg9wfzAhMW9RABug9klvQ1B6XGH0OuKmFhe85X0V8rIqeraNrm-ZHXCaQp6yYHqpJgxmgXAUkzmYpz2hqzK-og/s320/Oshie.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Definitely give this active guy a follow on twitter. The self acclaimed on-ice assailant, power play specialist and minister of moustachery: George Parros (@GeorgeParros) appeared a little down in the dumps in this picture he posted to twitter after the Montreal Canadiens lost their New Year's Eve game against the Carolina Hurricanes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRebm43ePDAgjtUPsLU2k79ItFHtr_bnYt4xcfbqWutgfERBh8ZsUMtnnlk_wF_zmcB_1fgqf53buhJCl8FiYHiN67aTgl5rxvrEmz-fZsY1DnqwUF6S7VSoBVZuJuDWgQWHjZEESNJyo/s1600/Parros.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRebm43ePDAgjtUPsLU2k79ItFHtr_bnYt4xcfbqWutgfERBh8ZsUMtnnlk_wF_zmcB_1fgqf53buhJCl8FiYHiN67aTgl5rxvrEmz-fZsY1DnqwUF6S7VSoBVZuJuDWgQWHjZEESNJyo/s320/Parros.JPG" width="249" /></a></div>
<br />
There were several tweets about two other events on New Year's day. One was the Outdoor Winter Classic in Michigan, where the Toronto Maple Leafs faced the Detroit Red Wings. Following the game the 2014 U.S Olympic Hockey team was announced. To see more tweets from your favorite hockey players visit: <a href="http://goo.gl/kWJHCJ">http://goo.gl/kWJHCJ</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For more follow Erica on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> and "like" on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">Facebook</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-47888549486461659612013-12-30T10:44:00.003-05:002013-12-30T10:44:38.169-05:00A look back on Christmas wishes 2013 from Hockey Players<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
Whether they spent the holidays at home with family or with their hockey teams, your favorite NHLer’s took some time to wish you Happy Holidays. So, while the halls are still decked with boughs of holly, let’s take a look at some of the good, the bad and the hilarious holiday wishes:<br />
<br />
Vancouver Canucks: Netminder Eddie Lack @Eddielack wanted to make sure he wished his friends, family and fans a Merry Christmas. He did it with this slightly frightening smile: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g9VH1yUAsbXZUIXRzWC9UIHrS7NqNx4nj8NeIvQKh_pP-k2LJCVlky3snBpBBefCAJRDo0xoimxQiW0mMxgyNd76W0Nf9-mXgMCib45riHhe5AYGj0ezU6SEy16rkyJnTvjJiNIo-WDV/s1600/lack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g9VH1yUAsbXZUIXRzWC9UIHrS7NqNx4nj8NeIvQKh_pP-k2LJCVlky3snBpBBefCAJRDo0xoimxQiW0mMxgyNd76W0Nf9-mXgMCib45riHhe5AYGj0ezU6SEy16rkyJnTvjJiNIo-WDV/s320/lack.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Ottawa Senators: Erik Karlsson @Erikkarlsson65 might have been drinking too much Christmas spirits with the guys. First he tweets a warm and fuzzy photo in some Christmas onsies followed by a creepy photo of himself posing with what I hope is a present. Merry Christmas?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWILGB6LPvwFp-NLQ_UU_3Uw49sDGedd606z9Kr5KubCsttZYmX8uxWHGF-DmUGQn0tTwnJdIDGOXoGxnSv3mPamZ9aQU8i5MWx4G5MnQF8HMgNoUvJLBv4YQfwMOnwZW8dukMqtnesWT/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWILGB6LPvwFp-NLQ_UU_3Uw49sDGedd606z9Kr5KubCsttZYmX8uxWHGF-DmUGQn0tTwnJdIDGOXoGxnSv3mPamZ9aQU8i5MWx4G5MnQF8HMgNoUvJLBv4YQfwMOnwZW8dukMqtnesWT/s320/1.JPG" width="245" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc9-6v1fOPf-4a9zubogP9RWCneYh9XxorGIMUDVqrg3KyqvEyrYndEV0hnaYpvRNkQHUheFbpDJ71vlz2YvgBvzT34Po9asulIehwG47Xg_GH11fbWRty97yLO8bb1Vd8QAoOc4ehns5/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc9-6v1fOPf-4a9zubogP9RWCneYh9XxorGIMUDVqrg3KyqvEyrYndEV0hnaYpvRNkQHUheFbpDJ71vlz2YvgBvzT34Po9asulIehwG47Xg_GH11fbWRty97yLO8bb1Vd8QAoOc4ehns5/s320/2.JPG" width="245" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Phoenix Coyotes: Paul Bissonette @BizNasty2point0 who is known for his "creativity/humor" on twitter sent out a tweet about his Christmas present. This guy is a handful, what a comedian! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UYd9RDxSRf3PA6ZMqHadZLRKIqe0ECPcY5SmQk5JVjXLTUoMNn8hlfqA4dVHVLDrFx5Ort5sNwR9iFtp4GWVarZe1SbfmWeIV5M4xe7gOyAm3Zc4CFcq-MWKEUilWT6INriPImNRVA9m/s1600/Biznasty.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UYd9RDxSRf3PA6ZMqHadZLRKIqe0ECPcY5SmQk5JVjXLTUoMNn8hlfqA4dVHVLDrFx5Ort5sNwR9iFtp4GWVarZe1SbfmWeIV5M4xe7gOyAm3Zc4CFcq-MWKEUilWT6INriPImNRVA9m/s320/Biznasty.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
New York Rangers: Ryan McDonagh @RMcDonagh27 took to twitter with a photo of some old time boot hockey and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYJMGPPJMBO_a-FbHdigb95CFrNxcWNg9cZT-t60QizA_MAAE41Hf-N97t-dPjYAokmWW4MAGJf4pYA5MdrOAnQQKSpcnLwKrtxBCw2AnGYpefg6_i1rve0_SBz2btMtOYZiyFIlT6JC1/s1600/ryan+M.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYJMGPPJMBO_a-FbHdigb95CFrNxcWNg9cZT-t60QizA_MAAE41Hf-N97t-dPjYAokmWW4MAGJf4pYA5MdrOAnQQKSpcnLwKrtxBCw2AnGYpefg6_i1rve0_SBz2btMtOYZiyFIlT6JC1/s320/ryan+M.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Boston Bruins made a video for Christmas, proving that Hockey players doing anything besides hockey is funny. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/39jWF-poc1k" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Anaheim Ducks: Dustin Penner @Dustinpenner25, named the number one player to follow on twitter by Bleacher Report, wished his fans Merry Christmas a few times. First by making the Ducks #1 in the league and then with a picture of a frosty the snowman sand sculpture. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGHfHT-cstAd3PCmacTLCOdegJ9y8EfKr_EWYS-3Kx1B54eVmSTkM2MAU4SxexaJgfINn-VcN7YCaFlymvxuDui5nWIqEU6xM_XmjddoPTyppY2VC-XP8r3DRLG_EnKFGd8FFxgWZ-VwMb/s1600/penner+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGHfHT-cstAd3PCmacTLCOdegJ9y8EfKr_EWYS-3Kx1B54eVmSTkM2MAU4SxexaJgfINn-VcN7YCaFlymvxuDui5nWIqEU6xM_XmjddoPTyppY2VC-XP8r3DRLG_EnKFGd8FFxgWZ-VwMb/s320/penner+1.JPG" width="249" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9-1KLUaLmJ_f5iILtto5lnLZ2_2i0L0U4r-xj3stJqqbQFKWrYq2WSy43MKhA3I5cYxETLJIE-z3JtExvq6ewTukih-ChTjC-NyZlOTTFkS8-3Ng-S-RoTQzoSACeftCKioDRdj9o5SS/s1600/penner+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9-1KLUaLmJ_f5iILtto5lnLZ2_2i0L0U4r-xj3stJqqbQFKWrYq2WSy43MKhA3I5cYxETLJIE-z3JtExvq6ewTukih-ChTjC-NyZlOTTFkS8-3Ng-S-RoTQzoSACeftCKioDRdj9o5SS/s320/penner+2.JPG" width="294" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Buffalo Sabres: Luke Adams @LukeJAdams wished fans a Merry Christmas from Switzerland.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SjgDEU5BlUrZ9NeM7-8izlrm6K_fbYGuOZ-QPFhVtosIR9k2D1pUvhECexsTNp3L6E5nYuqmSDQnz5IaUkRHSMfpPhzRa9L859eTZT2tIFqT_ORrND3Y_N3ndRL0egLDf5vp8h-W0yYj/s1600/lukeadams.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SjgDEU5BlUrZ9NeM7-8izlrm6K_fbYGuOZ-QPFhVtosIR9k2D1pUvhECexsTNp3L6E5nYuqmSDQnz5IaUkRHSMfpPhzRa9L859eTZT2tIFqT_ORrND3Y_N3ndRL0egLDf5vp8h-W0yYj/s320/lukeadams.JPG" width="314" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Chicago Blackhawks: Andrew Shaw @Shaw15er, celebrated Christmas numerous times. He built a gingerbread house and he brought out a hump day joke for Christmas which fell on a Wednesday this year. Creative Shaw, we tip our hats! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-h_sy2GBLuIFYbp0bjc5EIlweINsAECooaViQgyzTGjDJI7pEXqXn5li2PqTEVKuub-YBDOAM4nZLxmpM5KJ1gAK_W85nDuE2g2ozW84xL7a7oatFLuhshoMzv32H5IA0B0RfPuS6s1Ec/s1600/shaw+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-h_sy2GBLuIFYbp0bjc5EIlweINsAECooaViQgyzTGjDJI7pEXqXn5li2PqTEVKuub-YBDOAM4nZLxmpM5KJ1gAK_W85nDuE2g2ozW84xL7a7oatFLuhshoMzv32H5IA0B0RfPuS6s1Ec/s320/shaw+1.JPG" width="248" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbc1AjlvOLYfYWvZiKsqkRznBOkCysujz8gpwwCrqbvo-d48Ro_jc6FSAmFFYiTKhicYnEASNWWKiAbR5pIo7vlJAK3uLw_VctBaEOKbzOukDw7OjSj8WKQeB03TEQauQOcMogx5xpteaR/s1600/shaw+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbc1AjlvOLYfYWvZiKsqkRznBOkCysujz8gpwwCrqbvo-d48Ro_jc6FSAmFFYiTKhicYnEASNWWKiAbR5pIo7vlJAK3uLw_VctBaEOKbzOukDw7OjSj8WKQeB03TEQauQOcMogx5xpteaR/s320/shaw+2.JPG" width="283" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqHbUKymUlCTxtt5JSqaHpdz4KDtZ4DcLCOo_QsAXQQWlAX_kx19bt1EPKljbUytHeFOhGyVDe2hwsSSLZswqVvUa21xpsgxY5TEBSm7esiqiEOPeNQWM7J2soctFQMwJ5lIwG1vhEFVc/s1600/shaw+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqHbUKymUlCTxtt5JSqaHpdz4KDtZ4DcLCOo_QsAXQQWlAX_kx19bt1EPKljbUytHeFOhGyVDe2hwsSSLZswqVvUa21xpsgxY5TEBSm7esiqiEOPeNQWM7J2soctFQMwJ5lIwG1vhEFVc/s320/shaw+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Columbus Blue Jackets: Cam Atkinson @CamAtkinson13 enjoyed sometime in his home sweet home posting a picture to Instagram from the air.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNwBHB21xAopq9KLdFpjRwoSDM9O_UMyvEFqG8ydmHRlKp1NXgbjqywgvrftbljyldosXzC6pMnn3wM8ijVBS5mIelyOk7NV6vhoKLXuYA48gfDIeY7x6XX8AKlztlI85F4xTVt5wxgLE/s1600/cam+atkinson.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNwBHB21xAopq9KLdFpjRwoSDM9O_UMyvEFqG8ydmHRlKp1NXgbjqywgvrftbljyldosXzC6pMnn3wM8ijVBS5mIelyOk7NV6vhoKLXuYA48gfDIeY7x6XX8AKlztlI85F4xTVt5wxgLE/s320/cam+atkinson.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Minnesota Wild: Zenon Konopka @zenonKonopka a real comedian on social media is always posting pictures of his bunny rabbit Hop. So out of the numnerous Christmas photo’s that he posted over the holiday I bring you “Look at this little gift under the Xmas tree #hoppylife #waitingforsanta”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhk1gU00RoChPOUH0wSsATCEkp9AL8A2TIhRd77HrYLigobDJMeB57WSgtck9Dy6Yz8cC2hbgknuhowhSMjeSub07fLiccmGUChRGsj_RTjNvsFwS0_CvKDcvwSHBRIKtTx2YcK8yzk14/s1600/hoppylife.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhk1gU00RoChPOUH0wSsATCEkp9AL8A2TIhRd77HrYLigobDJMeB57WSgtck9Dy6Yz8cC2hbgknuhowhSMjeSub07fLiccmGUChRGsj_RTjNvsFwS0_CvKDcvwSHBRIKtTx2YcK8yzk14/s320/hoppylife.JPG" width="274" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Montreal Canadiens: We’ve seen hockey players singing and that is pretty funny. We’ve seen hockey players looking fairly frightening over the holidays but one thing that is forever adorable is hockey players with babies or in this case little kids in their dads’ team jersey and number. From George Parros @GeorgeParros, we bring you: “I know u got tree envy @maydayhockey #12footer” <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIHdmr0dDFg1JwCr6LYSDo_T0HQUwGtbAbc4LXlnArPxwhvZXcgI0fJPYIud86eHW8fvdyHBsDGk6h4L3_n43tvOs7tsmBsKzYgIRJlj6aLUg9-pHpALX603Gj1gG4yJu6OOQYMqeZ4ls/s1600/tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIHdmr0dDFg1JwCr6LYSDo_T0HQUwGtbAbc4LXlnArPxwhvZXcgI0fJPYIud86eHW8fvdyHBsDGk6h4L3_n43tvOs7tsmBsKzYgIRJlj6aLUg9-pHpALX603Gj1gG4yJu6OOQYMqeZ4ls/s320/tree.JPG" width="217" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Toronto Maple Leafs: John-Michael Liles @hoosierjm26 showed us some traditional family hockey. Nothing brings family together like pond hockey, especially when you have an NHLer in the family, I wonder how they split the teams up? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9uA0Traz649fPydJCwRpJ8V_qLnqIa2hTm9VPfNzumh8-O3erX1cRrLuoiOFZP55TEq0S3aa5dJaJ-wFCMuA01re47StcUc_V3RjwgkQt0VC0dzuwYJWxRyP6hQaNlGGrXe2JW1ryad4/s1600/family+hockey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9uA0Traz649fPydJCwRpJ8V_qLnqIa2hTm9VPfNzumh8-O3erX1cRrLuoiOFZP55TEq0S3aa5dJaJ-wFCMuA01re47StcUc_V3RjwgkQt0VC0dzuwYJWxRyP6hQaNlGGrXe2JW1ryad4/s320/family+hockey.JPG" width="310" /></a></div>
<br />
Washington Capitals: Brooks Laich @brookslaich is a very proud uncle to a niece and nephews, he is always telling us that through twitter. So, it only makes sense that his Christmas photo involves his niece and nephews who gave him, his favorite Christmas gift this year:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWJYp1rRBU1f70CziE9idcWUJGT1VOGl0C5H8RFWqq0nshaK3XAmTgxVgcpCPuZUDsfaipdGqu4bvu1sOz_kk5gRB2gW-WuginKvEX-Z_pUz3Jc9YyOa4CBYIrr2kAi631VewPgoD84F-/s1600/favorite+xmas+present.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWJYp1rRBU1f70CziE9idcWUJGT1VOGl0C5H8RFWqq0nshaK3XAmTgxVgcpCPuZUDsfaipdGqu4bvu1sOz_kk5gRB2gW-WuginKvEX-Z_pUz3Jc9YyOa4CBYIrr2kAi631VewPgoD84F-/s320/favorite+xmas+present.JPG" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
While some NHLers posted photos and tweets, some just enjoyed the much needed time off with their friends and families. If your favorite NHLer didn't make the list click<a href="https://twitter.com/nhlpa/nhl-players" target="_blank"> HERE</a> to check out more NHL players tweets. <br />
<br />
For more from The Amateur Fan follow Erica on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> or "like" on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">facebook</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-76649664462472447932013-12-27T13:06:00.001-05:002013-12-30T10:45:16.347-05:00My Three Favorite Things this weekWhere is the puck? Is it in the net? In a bizarre play during the overtime game between the Coyotes and Sabres the puck landed perfectly on the back of the Coyote goaltender’s pants right before he slide deep into the net. As he crossed the goal line he scored for the Sabers. The puck was perched perfectly on back of his pants and it was deemed a good goal, sparking celebration for the winning Sabres.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/pnRWjUFThfc" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
There are 6 outdoor games scheduled for this year and one in a quite unconventional hockey venue: Dodger Stadium in California on January 25 between the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Kings. With historical temperatures averaging at a high of 68 and low of 48 degrees the fans will not have to bundle up that much, but some are wondering how successful this game will be. Let’s go into the archives circa 1991, Las Vegas hosted an exhibition game outdoors at Caesars Palace between the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings in September where temps were in the 80s during the game. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/CgQtNJWI-RI" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
And, brought to you by Lunis Klasen from Sweden. A goal that could be deemed the best shootout goal ever. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jjdTogr9_oQ" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
For more from The Amateur Fan following Erica on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">"Like"</a> on Facebook<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-7994715695787601802013-12-18T11:03:00.000-05:002013-12-18T18:45:03.025-05:00Washington Capitals give the Phildelphia Flyers the go ahead during a 5-minute power play<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The revolving door between the Washington Capitals and their AHL affiliate the Hershey Bears is still spinning as they called up winger Casey Wellman for last night’s game. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Capitals faced the Philadelphia Flyers again after just rallying a 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period come back to beat them in their contest on Sunday. Although Wellman jumped right into the action with contributions early in the game, not even the “Great 8” Alex Ovechkin could rally the Capitals for a victory as the Flyers trumped the Caps for the first time this season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Frequently, the Capitals have been reaching down into the American Hockey League to add more depth to their roster, filling in the blanks from illness or injury. Taking the 130 mile drive from the sweetest place on earth to the nation’s capital recently has been: Michael Latta, Philipp Grubauer, Nate Schmidt, Patrick Wey and Dmitry Orlov. Along with a list of other players, no strangers to the Hershey to Washington and visa-versa trip, relying on the American Hockey League teams for depth has become a part of the game. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“It was a pretty even game. Both teams had their moments,” said Head Coach Adam Oates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ovechkin said that the Capitals played a normal game last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a game changer coming in the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period, the hard hit on Brayden Schenn by Tom Wilson, put the Capitals in the red as the Flyers netted 2 power play goals. The Flyers, not uncommon to a 3-point lead on the Capitals as they claimed a 3 goal lead for the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> time in 3 days, managed to hold on last night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The big win by the Flyers wasn’t enough to put the controversial hit on Schenn to rest. This hit, seen by the Capitals as a clean hit not even deserving of a penalty has drawn quite the controversy. Of course, the Flyers have a different opinion on what they call the reckless and endangering hit a 2-3 feet away from the boards on one of their top players. These are the types of hits that the league is trying to eliminate from the game, with good reason as there has been a lot of them this season. B. Schenn left the game last night with a mysterious upper body injury. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/89Ldu2k0oKU" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The young Wilson, 19 years old, has no record with the NHL but could be the next player to receive a suspension.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dangerous hits are getting out of hand in the NHL and that is reflective in the suspensions being handed out by player safety, recently with Shawn Thornton appealing his 15 game suspension.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This being Wilson’s first offense, hopefully he will not receive anything outrageous if anything. Wilson, not seeming to have any ill intentions yesterday, announced his arrival in Philadelphia with this tweet:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2H88hLA2znhxIuqeCoTbroBHpLnInM03D7FE-vRETn6Ju12mwuWGTC6hHm9Xj7jSr1gyxS37VLB-OyjPx0tsbE99wMDwFjvJTthN-6L3SdKuJ_U4bUw8_e9yKvPMzSYPLJQnzCNpHBXM/s1600/Tom+Wilson+Tweet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2H88hLA2znhxIuqeCoTbroBHpLnInM03D7FE-vRETn6Ju12mwuWGTC6hHm9Xj7jSr1gyxS37VLB-OyjPx0tsbE99wMDwFjvJTthN-6L3SdKuJ_U4bUw8_e9yKvPMzSYPLJQnzCNpHBXM/s320/Tom+Wilson+Tweet.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Capitals and the Flyers certainly have budded quite the rivalry. With the November 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> line brawl including a goaltender fight and back-to-back home-and-home games with a controversial hit on a top Flyers player, things are definitely heating up. The Capitals and Flyers will take a break from seeing each other but will square off again in back-to-back games March 2nd and 5th. Although Brendan Shanahan will have the final official say about the Wilson hit, the Flyers might have more to add to that when they see the Capitals in March. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-84457633991288547982013-12-16T14:10:00.000-05:002013-12-18T11:30:30.567-05:00Washington Capitals beat the Philadelphia Flyers to the net during shootout<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After last night’s rapid turn of events, the Philadelphia Flyers now have 2 dramatic losses to the Washington Capitals. The first loss being back on November 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>, when the frustration of a 0-7 game sparked a line brawl and a beating from Goaltender Ray Emery to Caps Goaltender Braden Holtby that he will never forget. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now the teams are set to face off again on Tuesday, this time on Philadelphia home ice, but will there be a different outcome?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday the two teams took the ice, and were looking a little different than they did back on November 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both teams had different goaltenders in net.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steve “magic mitts” Mason, who has been exceptional, was in between the pipes for the Flyers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, fresh out of the American Hockey League the rookie Philipp Grubauer, who’s sprawling saves have been wooing Caps fans everywhere, was posted up in goal. Although the goaltender fight from last month’s game might have been in the back of their minds, I don’t think that there was much fear of Mason skating the length of the ice to fight the rookie Grubauer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With the constant changes happening in the Capitals organization there was a surprise appearance from Michael Latta last night. This isn’t his first appearance in Washington, the young centerman has been back and forth between Hershey and Washington several times this season. Less than 24 hours before the Capitals faced the Flyers, Latta was in Hershey suiting up against the Binghamton Senators. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Latta had a knock out fight during that game in Hershey than packed up and headed to Washington, where troublemaker Zac Rinaldo dropped the gloves and went a round with the young scrapper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/p6MXdJW3Ovw" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two guys that helped keep the Capitals on top last night were Grubauer and lethal number 8, Alex Ovechkin. Grubauer once again dazzled and impressed in goal for the Capitals as he was calm and composed in the net, appearing to be more of a veteran than a rookie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, that could be because he has already guarded the Capitals goal through 3 shootouts in his short tenure with the Capitals this season. Late, in the third period the Capitals took Grubauer out to add an extra player, that extra player was Ovechkin who is always a dangerous force on the ice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With less than a minute left in the game Ovechkin sprung off the bench, netting the equalizer and taking this game into overtime. Ovechkin, who is always dangerous when out on the ice broke through his scoring drought last night and lead the Capitals to victory during the shootout. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia Flyers put in a partial effort last night, as they controlled 2 ½ periods of the contest. Claude Giroux came through with a goal, only his 7<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> of the season and their rookie, who has been hot on the ice for the Flyers, Michael Raffl was on hand to make plays and score goals. Raffl has been a great addition to the top line, a play maker great at helping out linemates Giroux and Voracek where it counts. He is showing great offensive skills, his progress and growth is promising. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers earned a much needed extra point for their record during overtime last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, the Washington Capitals aren’t done with them just yet. In less than 36 hours they will be facing the Washington Capitals again. Things that they need to learn from yesterday are: Ovechkin is a lethal weapon, even with only 60 seconds to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try to stay out of the penalty box because the Washington power play is lethal. The Flyers will have to skate hard, play a 60-minute hockey game, because not even a 3 point lead will keep them safe from the force of the Washington Capitals. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Follow Erica on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurfan</a> or "Like" on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">facebook </a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-76968602007857738992013-12-15T10:08:00.000-05:002013-12-15T12:05:46.009-05:00Neither snow nor freezing rain kept the fans from watching the Hershey Bears sweet victory last night<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s always special when your AHL goaltender gets their
chance in the NHL and that’s how it has been for Hershey Bears fans watching
Phillip Grubauer’s sprawling saves between the pipes for their NHL affiliate, the
Washington Capitals. But, it doesn’t just end there for the sweetest place on
earth, who was treated to receiving their ’09 & ’10 Calder Cup Champion
Goaltender, Michal Neuvirth, Friday on a conditioning loan from the Capitals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I thought [Neuvirth] got better as the game went on, I
really did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought he made some
really big saves in the 3rd,” said Head Coach Mike Haviland. “He needs to play,
he needs to play games. He even said to me right after, 'I got better as the
game went on,' and I said 'you did'.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The fans don’t mind having Neuvirth in town for a while
either. With all of the movement throughout the Capitals organization this season,
the fans are visually seeing the affiliations between the teams, as a player is
on Hershey ice one night and on their TV screen the next. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That might be due to Capitals Head Coach Adam
Oates’ team-first attitude, and the fans can definitely get behind that. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For some, seeing Grubauer between the pipes for the Capitals
is like seeing into the future of the organization. An organization with great
goaltending from top to bottom, which will develop great goaltending for seasons
to come. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fans are getting in on the
goaltender love as well, Dave Null said: "To have three goalies in the system that can step between the pipes on any given night will boost the confidence of the Caps and Bears players."</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last night, through the blizzard a few thousand faithful
Bears fans trekked to the Giant Center to watch their Hershey Bears suit up
against the Binghamton Senators for the 5<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> time in 3 weeks. It was
the faithful that trekked through the snow but this encouraging tweet from the
Broadcaster/Dir. Of Media Relations of the Hershey Bears could have helped put
the spring in their steps:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEojYLLu_0ueQZinVm84jJ1Xto6L4tQQ3Wo2xpC046zSncFjILDwRWyNVonp48J6i7wvUNoPFjDEtWUL1uWaAx9iDMcw28UkTa_sz-0I4j-QYl2IvsgRiRQRlhIvqrnMyn5AQdkhcuXbj1/s1600/Stuccio+Tweet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEojYLLu_0ueQZinVm84jJ1Xto6L4tQQ3Wo2xpC046zSncFjILDwRWyNVonp48J6i7wvUNoPFjDEtWUL1uWaAx9iDMcw28UkTa_sz-0I4j-QYl2IvsgRiRQRlhIvqrnMyn5AQdkhcuXbj1/s320/Stuccio+Tweet.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was the kind of over the hills and through the woods
drive on white snowy roads to a hockey game that set the night up to be a
memorable one. The kind that had fans commiserating about their drive to the
Giant Center with jokes like: “The car hydroplaned three times. I had a whistle
with me though and every time the car slid, I blew it and yelled icing.” The
fans were in good spirits and the few thousand that attended could still make
that arena roar. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“It shows the loyalty and it shows the passion that our fans
have and they are the best fans in the American Hockey League. They showed it
tonight. It’s a great feeling to come out there even on a winter storm and you
get thousands of people that come,” said Haviland. “It’s a great feeling to
have fans like we do.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The game could have gone either way last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Half-way through the Sens and the Bears were
tied up but due to the offensive contributions from the Bears, they were able to
spring ahead and run away with the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period. And, although the icy
conditions continued to worsen outside, announcements were made to fans but the
faithful Bears fans stayed till the end to cheer on their team to this sweet
victory. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafv6Neaa5z29qg1fgOF91RUwOdzJTmUtITu0UDuXKKQOVmW6_cs842c-WtnblTmpwRFbHwrnbG6qPm636Nx_ndmSEVJGiDsouxUSKEZmnys69znWdFuoa2dOsnuVhLavB61bkSjeEATmP/s1600/Latta+tweet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafv6Neaa5z29qg1fgOF91RUwOdzJTmUtITu0UDuXKKQOVmW6_cs842c-WtnblTmpwRFbHwrnbG6qPm636Nx_ndmSEVJGiDsouxUSKEZmnys69znWdFuoa2dOsnuVhLavB61bkSjeEATmP/s320/Latta+tweet.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Follow Erica on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">"Like"</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">Facebook <o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-26870348507129824082013-12-13T10:14:00.001-05:002013-12-13T10:14:44.414-05:00A big W for the Philadelphia Flyers at home
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The loved and adored Danny Briere returned to Philadelphia,
a place that he calls home, for the first time last night after the Flyers had
bought out the remaining 2 years on the veteran’s contract last summer. The
Flyers, who had the most expensive payroll in the NHL last season and missed
playoffs, were looking to shred in order to get under the salary cap. Numerous
Briere Flyers jerseys were being worn around the arena last night as a tribute
video was shown, honoring Briere’s 6 seasons in Philadelphia. The fans gave
Briere a standing ovation, displaying the love to Briere, who gave a wave but
all the love in the world did not mean the Flyers would let Danny’s new team
win.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We were trying to come out hard and play in their end,”
said Michael Raffl who put the Flyers on top early in the game. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And that they did, as they nearly shutout the Montreal
Canadiens last night during their return to home ice. The Canadiens couldn’t
score on the Flyers at even strength and they couldn’t score on the Flyers
during their power plays. It took pulling their goaltender and playing 6 on 5
during the last minute of the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period for the Canadiens to racket
one to the back of the net, cutting the Flyers lead in half. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We are pretty excited to play at home again. To play in front
of our fans is always a little boost,” said team captain Claude Giroux who
scored last night for his 6<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> goal of the season. “We learned the
hard way in Chicago, I don’t know how many power plays they had, to stay outta
the box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Momentum stays on our side and
when we did have a penalty kill we did a good job.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Flyers have been good during the 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup> period
and last night was no exception although they usually let off the gas after
that. But last night, the Flyers played a complete game, pedal to the metal, with
great goaltending. Only thanks to Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price was
the score kept low, as he came through with the big saves to keep his team in
the contest. The Flyers had plenty of opportunities to run up the score board
but they could not convert their power plays, after the Emelin/Downie incident
that gave the Flyers 5 minutes of advantage that was left unanswered. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I think there’s a lot of character in the room. They
certainly weren’t happy about that loss in Chicago because they wanted to show
that they could compete with that team and it didn’t work out,” said Head Coach
Craig Berube.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It took the Canadiens 59 minutes to find the back of the net
and then they had mere seconds to find their equalizer. That equalizer never
came for the Canadiens but this game could have been too close for comfort if
an earlier goal for the Canadiens was not waived off. After 2 big loses on the
road, this was a big win for the Flyers, over a team that has been steam
rolling on the road. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Good win tonight. They showed up and played a good team
game,” were the final words of a satisfied coach. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This was the 6<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> consecutive win for the
Philadelphia Flyers on home ice…but wait a minute Steve Mason sparked a brawl
after the game as he shoved an opposing player out of his crease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is Ray Emery rubbing off on him? Finally the initiation
Mason needed to become a true Flyer, as he sported a small gash and stream of
blood under his right eye during his post-game interview. That a boy Mas! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With high hopes that the winning habit is catching on in
Philadelphia, hopefully these boys can take the habit on the road with them as
they head to Washington – their fathers in tow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fathers who seemed to have been a good luck charm last night because no
one wants to disappoint their father.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Follow Erica on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/theamateurfan" target="_blank">@TheAmateurFan</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">"Like"</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAmateurFan" target="_blank">Facebook <o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6673216275103759378.post-57658981655914667482013-12-12T16:26:00.000-05:002013-12-12T16:26:17.891-05:00The game that got away: The Philadelphia Flyers fall to the Chicago Blackhawks 2-7
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The game that got away, the Philadelphia Flyers have been
having a few of those lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First the runaway
Dallas Stars game (1-5) on Saturday and last night Chicago Blackhawks (2-7). The
Blackhawks dominated this game from the second period on, with 7 different goal
scorers from the Blackhawks, the Flyers could not capitalize on any of their
chances after the first period. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The one thing Craig Berube definitely understands is what
games are important to players on an individual level. First Vinny Lecavalier
in Tampa and now Goaltender Ray Emery, as he got the start last night, facing
the Blackhawks for the first time since he helped win the Stanley Cup last
season. Although, after giving up his 6<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> goal at the start of the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>
period, Steve Mason replaced Emery in net to finish the night. Not the
brightest moment for Emery as he took a seat on the bench, and although he didn’t
have a chance at preventing some of the goals, he couldn’t have felt good about
being benched. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Earning the first power play, scoring first and winning the
first period did not help the Flyers, instead seemingly energized the
Blackhawks as they came back, boosting their lead to 5-2 during the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup>
period. This is the second time this season that the Flyers have given up 5
goals in one period.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Stay calm and stay with it,” head coach Craig Berube
encouraged the Flyers to maintain composure during a 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> period
timeout. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A composure that slowly slipped away as the Blackhawks increased
their lead to 7-2 and the Flyers increased their penalty minutes. The Flyers
had solid opportunities during the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> period. There were breakaways
that could have turned into goals giving the Flyers a hope at a comeback, but
that didn’t happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Blackhawks
achieved the upper hand by capitalizing on their speed and took control of this
game. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A 4-day game break lapsed between falling to the Dallas
Stars and then again to the Chicago Blackhawks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A break that did not help the Flyers, as the opposing teams both took
advantage of the leeway the Flyers left for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time not even a 24 hour rest awaits the
Flyers as they will suit up and face the Montral Canadiens tonight at 7pm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Danny Briere will be back in town for the
first time since his departure, how will the Philadelphia fan reach? I am
thinking the boo-birds will be out to greet him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Follow Erica on twitter @TheAmateurFan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04746606512863865422noreply@blogger.com0