Boston Bruins Hold On For 3-2 Win Over The Philadelphia Flyers

The Boston Bruins already blew two third period leads this season against the Philadelphia Flyers and almost threw the game away on Monday night. But Brett Connolly delivered a goal in the final minutes to help the B’s escape Philadelphia with a 3-2 win.

With the game tied and the clock winding down, Zdeno Chara flipped a shot from the point towards the net. Connolly got a piece of it, sending the puck down into the ice and skipping past Michel Neuvirth for a 3-2 lead.

 

“I’ve been getting some good chances and to see that one go in such a big game is great right before the All-Star break,” the forward said.

Connolly’s heroics were prompted by the Flyers’ strong performance during the second period and the beginning of the third. Wayne Simmonds scored his 13 and 14th goals of the season, drawing the game into a third period tie. His second goal was controversial, however, as Michael Del Zotto appeared to be offsides; the goal was challenged but upheld, as the officials were unable to find conclusive evidence that his skate had left the ice at the blue line.

The Flyers have now lost three straight after winning five of their previous six. Their comeback provided hope for the future, but also showed the importance of keeping their heads above water in the first period.

“We have to make sure we’re getting ourselves up for the first periods and it starts with the first shift and it snowballs from there,” Simmonds said.

Another source of Flyers confidence is their goaltenders, who have been standing tall even in losses. “Our goalies have been our MVPs so far this year,” Simmonds continued. “We know either one whoever goes in net you know they’re going to give us a chance to win every single night.”

Photo:  Zdeno Chara #33 of the Boston Bruins celebrates with his teammates after scoring against the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on December 4, 2015 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)