3    vs  3

On what was supposed to be a easy two point night at the United Center in Chicago, the home fans went home disappointed after overtime was not able to give the home team the win.

The Pittsburgh Penguins jumped out to a startling 2 - 0 lead in the first, and extended the lead early in the second to 3 - 0 before a bewildered Chicago team woke up and turned the game up a notch to where they would normally play.

It was clear the Penguins were playing on pride, and played a determined game throughout the third, as well as into the overtime session, holding on for the tie at 3 - 3 at games end.

Pittsburgh playing in their 4th game in 4 nights did not look anywhere near the fatigue levels you would expect from a team playing that much, but will admit that Chicago's talent and also the fact that the team might have been wearing down a little bit near the end probably did not help in the relapse of the early 3 - 0 lead.

" We played a strong game, and I am proud of the team, and the way they continued on against a very tough opponent.  GM Rod Edwards was quoted.
 If you were to ask me yesterday how I thought we would have done against the defending champions after playing  4 games in a row never mind just playing Chicago, in Chicago, I more than likely would have just " passed " on the question. Enough said I would like to think."

Last minute pick ups, Rhett Warrener and Doug Weight continue to be strong acquisitions for the Penguins as they continue to produce for Pittsburgh. Unfortunately certain free agent pick ups are still not showing up and the team is still hurting because of it.

"Back up goaltender Frederick Norrena stood on his head. What can you say ?  We played well quipped coach Bryan Murray. Credit goes to Pittsburgh for showing up and taking it to us. Good hockey is always appreciated by the fans, win or lose."

GM Bachul was unavailable for comment after the game as his limo driver charges him by the minute and had to make a hasty exit.    




Al Scan

Pittsburgh Tribune