Broad Street vs. Broadway: Game 1
(AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
During this time of the season, Madison Square Garden and other arenas alike are flooded with raw emotions. The post-season is the one time of the year that really matters, and both the Rangers and Flyers are fully prepared. There’s always a distinctive style of play in the post-season that makes the playoffs that exciting for hockey fans, no matter whose colors you represent.
The opening game of the series between the Rangers and the Flyers got off to a quick start in New York. The Rangers led the Flyers in shots 14-6 in the first period. However, Philadelphia found the back of the net on their first shot when Flyers defenseman Andrew MacDonald put the puck right past Henrik Lundqvist. But the Rangers didn’t waste any time, bouncing right back just minutes later, Mats Zuccarello scored on the Flyers back-up goalie, Ray Emery. Starting goalie Steve Mason sustained an upper-body injury a few days ago against the Pittsburgh Penguins. It is not yet confirmed whether he will be able to play in this series.
Martin St. Louis and Braydon Coburn fight for control of the puck (Philadelphia Flyers vs. New York Rangers – Photos – April 17, 2014 – ESPN AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
After a scoreless second period, Carl Hagelin was clipped with a high stick and started bleeding, drawing a four-minute penalty in a tied game. The Rangers power play resulted in two more goals, turning the tide of the game. Brad Richards went top shelf past Emery and two minutes later, still on the power play, Derek Stepan also scored. A big drive by Kimmo Timonen gave Philadelphia a shot, but the puck bounced right off the post. Later, Hagelin scored his fourth career playoff goal, ending the game with a score of 4-1 New York.
The Rangers lead the series against the Flyers 1-0. Game 2 will take place April 20th, 2014 in New York.
