FLYERS NEWS

It was fight night at the Wachovia center between the Flyers and the stinkin New York Rangers tonight. All together the 2 teams started 4 fights on the ice at various times in the game. The Flyers won the first couple of fights and the early rounds then hung on points wise, for the unanimous decision. At least it felt like that's what happened with all the fighting out there, but actually the night really belonged to Ray Emery and the Flyer's defense. The defense held the Rangers to just 24 shots on goal and allowed them just 3 power play opportunities, killing off all 3 of them without any real threat from the Rangers. With the help of that D, Ray Emery, in his 3rd game back from injury, finally seemed to rediscover the elite form he showed for the Orange and Black earlier this season before the injuries crept in.

He saved all 24 shots the Rangers threw at him for his 3rd shutout this season. That proved to be huge for the Flyers on this night, as Henrick Lundqvist mostly kept them off the board as well. However, James Van Reimsdyk did find a way to score on breakaway off a perfect pass from Chris Pronger, and Mike Richards added a power play goal in the 2nd period, just enough offense to give the Flyers's the win. So all in all it was tough, scrappy and literally, hard fought, peformance for the Orange and Black in this one. Basically, it was the kind of effort you'd like to see out of them every night, and the kind of effort they'll need every night from here on out if they still hope to grab a playoff spot in the Eastern conference. Currently with 2 straight 2 wins and 53 points overall, the Flyers are still 1 point out of 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern conference.

As Mike Richards goes so go the Flyers. After tonight the Flyers are 12-3 overall when Richards scores a goal, and just 10-24 when he doesn't. Considering he's the team captain that's probably the way it should be. Essentially from here on out if they are to make the playoffs, the Flyers will need strong efforts every night from their D and from Richards. I think they can get them.