Late run for Caps not enough, Flyers take it in OT

The Washington Capitals are dead last in the NHL in 1^st period scoring. Not to mention the Caps haven’t lit the lamp in the first period in 7 straight games. Tonight vs. the Flyers it was déjà vu for Washington fans making it 8 straight games scoreless in the opening period.

Philly struck early when Jeff Carter wrapped Michal Neuvirth 90 seconds into the contest. Neuvy was caught out of position and was later removed from the net at the end of the first period. Although the goal was his fault, it was reported that he left the game due to a lower body injury.

Shortly after the goal Caps tough guy, DJ King, scrapped with Jody Shelley of the Flyers. King landed a few good punches and took him down in the end. Jody Shelley? He’s got two first names, and their girls names enough said!!!!!

Semyon Varlamov started the 2^nd period with a “10 bell save”, as Locker and Joey B would say. Despite more spectacular saves by Varly, Claude Giroux scored off his own rebound late in the second making it 2-0.

Then the Caps started their run in the 3^rd period as they usually do. Mike “The Garbage Man” Knuble tallied first off a rebound from Marcus Johansson. Seconds Later Nicklas Backtrom fired a pass to Alex Ovechkin who tapped in his 16^th goal of the season with ease. That assist earned Nicky B his 300^th career point in the NHL. Congrats Nicky B!

This game would eventually end in overtime when Andrej Mezaros of the Flyers scored the winning goal off a slap shot. It was another tough loss for the Caps despite earning 1 point for taking it to extra time. The Flyers outshot the Capitals 30 to 25 in the contest.

The Capitals were not given a chance on the power play tonight, and couldn’t seem to get a call from the home-biased refs. This loss makes it the 6^th straight OT/shootout defeat the Capitals have suffered in a row.

The Caps will continue their road trip Thursday against the New York Islanders. Hopefully we will start playing 60 minute games instead of 20 minutes. Rock the Red!

Player of the Game: Nicklas Backstrom (1 assist, +1)

Stat of the Game: No power plays (where were the refs?)

Hit of the Game: John Erskine on Jody Shelley (2^nd period)

Unsung Hero: DJ King