Wednesday, March 12, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
After a tough loss the Easterb conference leading Celitcs in their last game, that a snapped a 4 game winning streak, the Sixers looked to rebound tonight against the team that is 2nd in the Eastern conference, the Detroit Pistons, at the Palace at Auburn Hills. Over the years the Palace has been a real house of horrors for the Sixers, and for just about everyone thus far this season, as coming in the Pistons had only lost 5 games at home all season long. So on paper, the chances of Sixers rebounding tonight didn't look so good. However, the young Sixers were determined to prove they belong at the top of the East, and ignored the stats, to steal victory in a thriller. On the night five Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Andre Miller, Reggie Evans, Thaddeus Young, Rodney Carney) With Iggy's 22 leading the way. Defensively, Samuel Dalembert with 15 rebounds and 3 blocks, and Evans with 11 rebounds and a block led the way as the Sixers out rebounded Detroit 39-32, but were otherwise mano a mano with the Pistons in this test of wills. In the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumped out to an early 8 point lead, with the score 26-18. In the second quarter of play the Pistons chipped into the lead a bit and by the half it was only 6, with the score 48-42. In the 3rd quarter of play, the Pistons pulled ahead for seemingly the first time all night, and clung to a 67-66 lead heading into the 4th quarter. There the two teams bounced back and forth until with under 30 seconds to go the Sixers got the ball up one, 83-82, following two made free throws by Chauncey Billups. Expectedly they gave the ball to Iggy, and he let the clock run down to about 7 seconds, before missing a tough, well defended jumper. So that gave the Pistons one last chance to get the win, but Mr. Big shot, Chauncey Billups, was defended equally well and came up short on his game winning jumper, to cap a huge 83-82 win for the Sixers. So the Sixers improve to 31-34 overall, but remain 3rd in the Atlantic division, and 7th in Eastern conference, still a game behind the Wizards for 6th.
FLYERS NEWS
In the second game of their home and home with the Toronto Maple Leafs, this one at home in Wachovia center, the Orange and Black only experienced more heartbreak. After his 51 saves last night Marty Biron got the start in goal again and produced 28 more dazzling saves but it was to no avail. In the first period of play Toronto got off to a quick start, as just less than 4 minutes in Ian White scored for a 1-0 Leafs lead. A few minutes later Jeff Carter scored to knot it up at 1 for the Flyers. Then late in the period Alexei Ponikarovsky scored for a 2-1 Leaf's lead. Late in the 2nd period of play Mike Knuble scored on the power play to tie it up again at 2. Finally, early in the 3rd period of Pavel Kubina broke the Flyer's hearts yet again scoring on the power play for a 3-2 Leaf's lead. From there the Flyer's had their chances, but try as they might they couldn't get the equalizer and finally succumbed to Toronto 3-2. So the Flyers drop to 35-27-9 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference, still 4 points ahead of the Buffalo Sabres. Still, they can't expect to hold onto that spot and make the playoffs if they keep losing like this, sooner or later they are going to have to put some wins together.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Cincinnati Reds. Bronson Arroyo pitched 4 solid innings and the Reds crushed three homers as the Phils fell yet again 6-1. Let's just hope they are just working out all of the kinks in the offense now, so that when the season starts in 19 days they'll be firing on all cylinders.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers had been making a serious playoff push coming into tonight's game, the first of a home and home, but they were stopped in their tracks by the Maple Leafs in Toronto. Marty Biron got the start in goal and racked up 51 saves, but it was not enough. In the first period of play things looked good for the Orange and Black as they jumped out to a 1-0 lead on a goal by Scottie Upshall. late in the 2nd period of play Braydon Coburn extended that lead to 2-0 with a power play goal. Early in the 3rd period of play, Danny Briere scored to make it 3-0 Flyers and it seemed a give in that the Flyers would get yet another important win. Someone forgot to tell that to Toronto. A few minutes later, Mats Sundin scored on the power play to cut the lead to 3-1. Then late in the period Pavel Kubina and Jeremy Williams each scored within a few minutes of each other and suddenly with just under 4 minutes to play in the game it was all knotted up at 3. From there neither team was able to score before the end of regulation, and the game lumbered into overtime. There, just 4 minutes in, Pavel Kubina slapped in a rebound and broke the Flyer's hearts to cap off a most improbable 4-3 Maple Leafs victory. So the Flyers drop to 35-26-9 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference.
Monday, March 10, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers had won 4 in a row coming into tonight's showdown with the Eastern conference and Atlantic division leading Boston Celtics. Unfortunately, thanks to Boston's smothering lock down defense in the second half, the streak came to a close tonight, but not before the Sixerss found out how they really match up to the Eastern conference's elite. Although they are young, up and coming and on a roll right now, they are still growing as a team aren't quite ready to legitimately challenge teams like Boston just yet, but give them a couple years when Boston has aged out of contention and they'll be right up there. Despite the loss the Sixers still managed to produce five scorers in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Andre Miller, Louis Williams, Thaddeus Young, Jason Smith) with Miller's 22 leading the way. Defensively, Samuel Dalembert led the way with 10 rebounds and 2 blocks, and Reggie Evans chipped in with 11 rebounds, as the Sixers actually edged the Celtics in rebounding 51-50, but it was to no avail. The Sixers shot only 31% from the field and were constantly frustrated by the smothering Celtics, while Boston shot nearly 50% from the field and constantly scored easily as the game wore on. In the first quarter of play Boston jumped out a big early lead, but the Sixers fought back and tied it at one point before Boston pushed out a 6 point lead with the score 26-20. In the 2nd quarter of play, Boston merely maintained their lead with the score 53-47 at the half. Finally in the 3rd quarter of play Boston began to wear down the young Sixers and pulled away to a 14 point lead, with the score 76-62 heading into the 4th quarter. There Boston did just enough to maintain their lead yet again and walked away winners by only 14, with the final score 100-86. So actually the Sixers acquitted themselves quite nicely considering where they are right now as a team. So the Sixers drop to 30-34 overall, but remain 7th in the Eastern conference and 3rd in the Atlantic division.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Pirates. Ian Snell got the start for the Buckos and tossed for 4 solid innings. Meanwhile J.D Durbin got the start for the Phils and got roughed up allowing 5 runs on 8 hits in 3 and 1/3rd innings of work as the Phils fell 8-5. Still, it's only spring training and there is no reason to think the Phils will continue playing like this when the season starts in April.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers stayed hot today as they traveled to Milwaukee for a sunday afternoon matinee against the Bucks. Just as in their last game against the Supersonics the Sixers kept running and gunning to perfection and spread the ball around. All told, seven Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Andre Miller, Willie Green, Samuel Dalembert, Thaddeus Young, Louis Williams, Reggie Evans) with Young's 22 leading the way. Defensively, Slammin Sammy lead the way again with 10 rebounds, as the Sixers out rebounded Milwaukee 38-31, and held them to 48% shooting from the field. Meanwhile, the Sixers shot a stellar 60% from the field and had the Bucks grasping at air all day long. In the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumped out to an 11 point lead, with the score 33-22. In the 2nd quarter of play, the Sixers kept racing and jumped out to a 22 point lead, with the score 65-43 at the half. In the 3rd quarter of play, the Bucks chipped into the Sixers lead a bit, cutting it down to 14, with the score 88-74 heading into the 4th. There the Sixers held firm and eventually pulled away to win easily by 22, with the final score 119-97. So the Sixers improve to 30-33 overall, but remain 3rd in the Atlantic division and 7th in the Eastern conference, now just .5 games behind the Washington Wizards for 6th in the conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Blue Jays. While Ryan Howard hit his second homer of the spring, Kyle Kendrick got the start and got roughed up allowing 6 runs on 7 hits in just 2 innings, As Vernon Wells knocked in 4 runs and Aaron Hill slapped a 2 run double. Meanwhile Jesse Litsch pitched 4 solid innings as the Jays won 9-4.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyer's are making a push at just the right time, as they knocked off the New York Islanders tonight for another big win. Marty Biron got the start in goal tonight and saved 32 of the 33 shots he faced to spirit the Orange and Black to victory. In the first period of play neither team could light the lamp. Early in the 2nd period Danny Briere scored on the power play for a 1-0 Flyer's lead. Late in the period Jeff Carter added another power play goal for a 2-0 Flyers lead. About midway through the 3rd period Scott Hartnell scored yet another power play goal for a 3-0 Flyers lead. A few seconds later Freddy Meyer scored for New York to cut the lead to 3-1. Finally late in the period Hartnell scored again on the power play for 4-1 Flyer's lead, which would prove to be the final score. So the Flyers improve to 35-26-8 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division, and 8th in the Eastern conference, now 4 points clear of the 9th place Buffalo Sabres.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spirng training today with a matchup against the Cleveland Indians. Youngster Travis Blakeley, one of many fighting for the 5th spot in the Phils rotation, got the start, and got roughed up allowing 5 runs, 4 hits and 4 walks in 1 and 2/3rd innings of work. Meanwhile Fausto Carmona of the Indians tossed three shutout innings and Ryan Garko launched a three homer and Cleveland defeated the Phils 9-5.
Friday, March 07, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers stayed hot tonight as they returned to the Wachovia center, where they have not lost since February 1, to welcome Kevin Durant and the Seattle Supersonics, winner's of just 6 road games thus far this season. They never had a chance. Seven, yes seven Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Miller, Andre Iguodala, Willie Green, Samuel Dalembert, Reggie Evans, Thaddeus Young, Jason Smith) with Slammin Sammy's 22 leading the way. On defense, it was also Slammin Sammy leading the way with 13 rebounds and a block, as the Sixers out rebounded Seattle 43-35, forced them into 20 turnovers, including 11 steals , and held them to just 48% shooting from the field. The Sixers meanwhile, shot over 50% from the field and beyond arc, and turned the ball over just 12 times, en route to a well, route. In the first quarter of play the Sixers jumped out to an 11 point lead, with the score 33-22. In the second quarter the Sonics, playing catch up cut into the Sixers lead, and by the half it was only 9, with the score 61-52. In the 3rd quarter of play, Seattle kept cutting into the lead, and at one point it was down to 5, before the Sixers finally powered away, to the point where by the 4th quarter of play the lead had ballooned up to 22, with the score 88-66. Finally, in the 4ht quarter of play the pounding continued even with the Sixers reserves in the game, and eventually they won going away by 34, with the final score 117-83. So the Sixers improve to 29-33 overall, and remain 3rd in the Altantic division and 7th in the Eastern conference, now a comfortable 3 games ahead of the Nets.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today with an afternoon matinee against the Tampa Rays. Cole Hamels got the start and got a little roughed up allowing 3 runs and 5 hits in 3 innings of work. His counterpart Jeff Neiman was a little better off for the Rays. Tampa's Erick Hinkse knocked in two runs, and Jason Bartlett went 2 for 3 with an RBI and 2 stolen bases as Tampa pounded the Phils 9-1. Pat Burrell knocked in the only run of the day for the Phils with a single in the 6th inning. Oh well, better luck next time.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The orange and black got a huge win tonight over the Tampa Bay Lightning, not because the Lightning are one of their top rivals right now, but because coming into tonight they were dangling somewhat precariously in the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern conference, by just a point over the Buffalo Sabres. Marty Biron got the start in goal tonight and played well, saving 18 of the 20 shots he faced to help spirit the Flyers to victory. Early on in the first period of play, it didn't look so good as Tampa Bay's Jolli Jokinen scored just 31 seconds into the period for a 1-0 lead. Then late in the period Danny Briere and Jeff Carter each scored late goals to push the Flyers ahead 2-1. Midway through the 2nd period Maxim Ouellet score to tie it up at 2. From there the Flyer's defense, yes the defense smothered Tampa Bay until with just under 2 minutes to play Jeff Carter scored to put the Flyers up for good 3-2. So the Flyers improve to 33-26-8 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference, now a more comfortable 3 points ahead of the Sabres.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles made a somewhat surprising move today, releasing veteran linebacker Takeo Spikes. Spikes was second on the team last season with 139 tackles. Still, the Eagles didn't think he was good enough to keep. Why? well the obvious reason is to free up some more cap room, as he would have been owed about $5 million, plus if you're going to release someone, now is the time to do it, when they can still become a free agent and sign on with someone else. Anyway, cap room is not only reason they released him. Apparently they just didn't feel he played up to par last season. It's not hard to understand why. When he was a pro bowl linebacker with the Bengals back in 2003-2004, he consistently racked up interceptions and sacks. Last season, he recorded only one sack and failed to haul in an interception. Also the Eagles are clearly looking to bring together as many playmakers as possible on the team this season, so one sack and zero interceptions just wasn't go to cut it. Thus, they think the youngsters Stewart Bradley and Akeem Jordan are playmakers enough to cut it. Now if I hadn't seen Stewart play late season with my own eyes, I might be inclined to disagree with them, but I saw Stewart and he looked pretty good, so this might to turn out to be a pretty smart move in the end.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today, with an outing against the Tampa Devil Ray, er excuse me Tampa Rays. Yeah they have officially dropped the Devil, big whup. Anyway, Adam Eaton got his second start of spring today and got a little roughed up allowing 4 runs on 5 hits in the two innings, as the Phils fell 6-4.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training with a little split squad action, meaning the team split in half today, with the starters playing the Toronto Blue Jays, while the reserves went up against the Tigers. On the strength of 4 shutout innings from Brett Myers, the starters defeated Toronto 6-1. On the other hand thanks to 3 innings of 1 hit ball by Justin Verlander, the Tigers outlasted the Phils reserves 6-2. So once again it's a mixed review for the Phils this spring.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
Just when it seemed like the Flyers had shed their losing ways, the Sabres came into the Wachovia center tonight and pushed them right back down again. Marty Biron got the start in goal tonight and thanks to more sluggish defense and far too many penalties, he had a rough night, as did the rest of his teammates. In the first period of play Jason Pominville put the Sabres up quickly 1-0 just a minute into the game. Halfway through the period Maxim Afinogenov scored for a 2-0 Sabres lead. Then late in the period Scottie Upshall began bringing the Flyers back, with a score to cut the lead to 2-1. Early in the 2nd period of play Steve Downie brought the Flyers all the way back ,scoring to tie it up at 2. Thus, as the 3rd period of play began, there was renewed hope in the Wachovia center. It didn't last long. Less than 2 minutes into the period, Derek Roy and Jason Pominville each scored for a 4-2 Sabres lead. Finally a few minutes later Afinogenov scored his second goal for a 5-2 lead and that was about all she wrote. The Flyer's had no answers the rest of the way and eventually succumbed to Buffalo 5-2. So the Flyers drop to 33-26-8 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 7th in the Eastern conference, but only by a point.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today, matching up with the division rival Atlanta Braves. Kyle Kendrick made his second start of the spring and got roughed up a bit, allowing 7 runs on 9 hits in 2 and 2/3rds innings, as the Phils fell to Atlanta 10-1. Ryan Howard knocked in the only run of the day for the Phils. All I can say is thank God it's still spring.
Monday, March 03, 2008
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued their spring training trials and travails yesterday and today. Yesterday Cole Hamels struggled a bit allowing 4 runs on 3 hits, including 2 homers in a 7-7 tie with the Yankees. Today the youngster Doug Savery pitched two solid innings and new Phillie Eric Bruntlett went 3 for 4 with 2 RBIs as the Phils defeated the Pirates 3-1. So its another mixed review for the Phils thus far in this spring training. Go figure.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers continued their west coast swing late tonight, in L.A against the once again lowly Clippers. Still riding high off their upset of Shaq and the Suns the Sixers rolled in and rolled over the Clips. Six Sixers scored in double figures on the night(Andre Iguodala, Willie Green, Thaddeus Young, Samuel Dalembert, Louis Williams, Rodney Carney) with Iggy's 18 leading the way. Defensively, Slammin Sammy led the way with 12 rebounds and 2 blocks, as the Sixers out rebounded the Clips 33-27 and forced them into 18 costly turnovers. In the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumped out to a 4 point lead, with the score 25-21. In the 2nd quarter of play, the Sixers continued to extend their lead and by the half they led by 12, with the score 54-42. In the 3rd quarter of play, L.A attempted to push back into it, but the Sixers held firm and actually pushed their lead up to 14, with the score 73-59. Finally, in the 4th quarter of play, the Sixers ran away with it, or perhaps the Clippers just packed it in, but at any rate, when all was said and done the Sixers had won going away 106-80. So the Sixers improve to 28-33 overall and jump back up to 7th in the Eastern conference and 3rd in the Atlantic division.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The orange and black rode a 3 game winning streak into this afternoon's matinee in New York against the Rangers. Unfortunately, that streak ended today, despite yet another valiant effort from the fly guys. Still, the Flyer's appear to have mended whatever was troubling them just in time for a playoff run. In the first period of play Vinny Prospal and Martin Straka traded early goals for a 1-1 tie. A couple minutes later Braydon Coburn scored for a 2-1 Flyers lead. Then Late in the period Fredrik Sjostrom and Ryan Callahan each scored for New York within a couple minutes of each other to forge a 3-2 Ranger's lead. Finally, Jeff Carter scored a couple minutes later to knot it up again at 3. Early in the 3rd period Cristian Backman scored for a 4-3 Ranger's lead. Late in the 3rd period Jeff Carter scored again to tie it up at 4. From there neither team scored again until the game had lurched into a shootout. There Kimmo Timonen failed to score for the Flyers and Brendan Shanahan was successful for New York in the first round. Finally, in the second round of the shootout Nigel Dawes was successful for New York, so it came down to Jeff Carter again to keep the game alive, and he like Timonen was unsuccessful. So the Rangers got the win 5-4 and the Flyers took the loss, but since they earned a point for losing in overtime, they remain in 4th place in the Atlantic division and actually jump to 7th in the Eastern Conference.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
After a tough loss to the Warriors in Golden State in their last game, the Sixers traveled to Phoenix to face the Suns and rebounded in a big way, giving the Suns a taste of their own medicine en route to an impressive victory. Offensively, six Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Andre Miller, Willie Green, Reggie Evans, Thaddeus Young, Louis Williams) with Iggy's 32 leading the way. With Andre Miller posting 12 assists it's not hard to see why the Sixer offense was so spread out, and efficient. Defensively, Reggie Evans led the way with 13 rebounds, as the Sixers focused more on their scoring tonight than their defense. The Suns shot nearly 50% from the field and out rebounded the Sixers 40-39. However, the Sixers forced the Suns into 18 turnovers and used those TOs to fuel their fast breaking offense. So essentially, the defense did have some part in the win, just not as much as it should have. Through the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumpedout to a ten point lead , with score 28-18. In the 2nd quarter of play the Suns turned the tables and by the half it was all tied up at 54. In the 3rd quarter of play, thanks to an Iguodala buzzer beating half court shot to finish it off, the Sixers eked out to a 2 point lead, with the score 83-81. Finally, in the 4th quarter the Sixers stood firm and hung on for the impressive 119-114 win. So the Sixers improve to 27-33 overall and jump back into 3rd place in the Atlantic division and 7th in the Eastern conference.
FLYERS NEWS
After a crushing 10 game losing streak, the Flyers have now officially rebounded nicely, with this their 3rd straight victory, as they knocked off the New York Islanders. Marty Biron got the start in goal and his dazzling play, saving 33 of the 34 shots he faced, helped push the Orange and Black to victory. In the first period of play, Jeff Carter scored late for a 1-0 Flyer's lead. About midway through the 2nd period of play, Bill Guerin scored for a 1-1 tie. Then late in the period Braydon Coburn scored for a 2-1 Flyer's lead. About midway through the 3rd period of play Mike Knuble scored shorthanded for a 3-1 Flyer's lead. Finally, the Islanders pulled their goalie late in the game, so as to attempt to put together a final rally. Then with just over 30 seconds to play Scottie Upshall scored for a 4-1 Flyer's lead and that was about all she wrote. The Flyer's eventually, held on to win 4-1 and so improve 33-25-7 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles stayed busy today, signing defensive end Chris Clemons to a 5 year deal. Last season despite starting only two games, Clemons amassed eight sacks, one of only afew players to do so. Thus, Clemons should help to bolster the Eagles pass rush, as fights for playing time with Juqua Thomas, Trent Cole, and Victor Abiamiri. All they need now is that high profile reciever that was missing from their offense last season, and they'll be all set for a good and exciting season.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Yanks. Chin ming Wang looked unhittable for the Yanks, while Adam Eaton and Chad durbin got a little roughed up for the Phils as New York showcased its mighty lineup and won 9-3.
Friday, February 29, 2008
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds wasted no time getting to work in the NFL's free agent signing period, as today on the first day of the period they signed Cornerback Asante Samuel to a 6 year 57 million deal. Samuel was the coveted free agent on the defensive side of the ball heading into this offseason and for good reason. Thus far in is career, playing only with the Patriots he has amassed 22 interceptions , 5 in the postseason, and 2 superbowl rings, not too shabby if I may say so myself. Anyway Sameul immediately, becomes one of the Eagles top two cornerbacks, most likely along with Lito "one more for the road" Sheppard, meaning Sheldon Brown either becomes the Bird's third option at cornerback or moves over to safety to help the aging Brian Dawkins and the upstart Quinten Mickell. Either way it will be to the Eagles benefit.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today wit ha couple games against the Pirates. First Kyle Kendrick and Doug Savert, the Phils 1st round draft pick a couple years ago, got a little roughed in their spring debuts in a 11-6 loss. Still, the Phils starting lineup looked good pounding out 5 runs. Next the Phils got even as Brett Myers pitched 3 innings and allowed one run in his Spring debut for a 5-4 win. So all in all it's been a pretty good spring for the Phils thus far.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers began a key road trip today in Golden State against Baron Davis and the run and gun Warriors. Although the Sixers had been running and gunning pretty well themselves, they were no match for the seasoned artistry of Warriors' run and gun. Offensively, five Sixers scored in double figures (Andre Iguodala, Willie Green, Andre Miller, Rodney Carney, Louis Williams) with Miller and Carney's 18 a piece leading the way. Defensively, Sameul Dalembert led the way with 10 rebounds and a block, as the Sixers out rebounded the Warriors 50-45. Unfortunately, outside of that the Sixers didn't so well defensively, as the Warriors were able to get into a prime shooting rythm, hitting 51.1% of their shots from the field including 11 three pointers. The Sixers on the other hand shot just 40 % from the field and hit just three threes and that just won't get it done against three-point happy Golden State. In the first quarter of play, the Warriors jumped out to an eight point lead, with the score 26-18. From there they never looked back. By the half they led by 15 with the score 67-52. By the end of the 3rd quarter their lead was up to 17, with the score 90-73. Finally, in the 4th quarter of play Golden State just kept hitting threes and ran the final tally up to an easy 22 point win, with the final score 119-97. So the Sixers drop to 26-33 overall and back into 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
After a stirring win in a shootout to snap a season long 10 game losing streak, in their last game, the Flyers returned to the Wachovia center tonight for a key match up with the Eastern conference leading Ottawa Senators. Marty Biron got the start in goal and put forth a dazzling performance saving 32 of the 33 shots he faced, to help usher the Flyer's to victory. In the first period of play the goaltenders dominated and there was no score. Early in the 2nd period of play Jason Spezza scored on the power play for a 1-0 Senators lead. Then late in the period Jim Dowd scored to tie it at 1 for the Flyers. In the 3rd period of play, Mike Knuble scored twice in the first 7 minutes for a quick 3-1 Flyers lead. From there Biron held down the fort until the Orange and Black had secured their second win in a row, 3-1. So the Flyers improve to 32-25-7, remain 4th in the Atlantic division and move back up into the coveted 8th spot and final playoff position in the Eastern conference. Yes that's right just like that the Flyers are in good shape again.
EAGLES NEWS
The NFLs' free agent signing period does not start until tomorrow, but the Eagles are already making moves. They have officially released Jevon "the Freak" Kearse and after two lackluster seasons it's about time. He really hasn't been worth his weight in gold these past few years and he even lost his starting job Juqua thomas last season, so there was just no way the Eagles could keep him. Now some other team can get suckered into giving him a free agent deal. In addition to releasing Kearse, the Birds also re-signed safety J.R Reed, and tendered an offer to cornerback Huselio Hanson, meaning he can still negotiate with other teams as a free agent, but the Eagles can match any offer he gets, so most likely he'll also be back with the Eagles next season.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers continued their hot streak, tonight as they welcomed the Orlando Magic to the Wachovia center. The last time these two teams met, the Sixers were outclassed and a little embarrassed, by Dwight "superman" Howard and his mates. This time however, the Sixers put a little kryptonite in superman's cape and pulled out the impressive win, their 7th in a row at home, apparently they can't lose at home any more. Any how this was an impressive night for the Sixers to say the least. Offensively, three Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Willie Green, Andre Miller) with Green and Miller's 26 each leading the way. Defensively, Samuel Dalembert led the way with 12 rebounds, as the Sixers equaled Orlando on the boards 41-41 and forced them into 2o costly turnovers, which with this team is a recipe for easy fastbreak points and wins. Through the first quarter of play the Sixers jumped out to an early 8 point lead, with the score 33-25. In the second quarter of play the Sixers only increased their lead to 19 by the half, with the score 61-42. In the 3rd quarter of play the Magic began to rally back cutting the lead to 15, with the score 83-68. Finally in the 4th quarter of play, the Magic continued to rally, but the Sixers stood firm and hung on to win by 12, with score 101-89. So the Sixers improve to 26-32 overall, and move into 3rd place in the Atlantic division all by their lonesome. Consequently they also jump to 7th in the Eastern conference, pretty cool huh?
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils played their first spring training game today against the Cincinnati Reds and won convincingly 8-1. I tell you about all the stats and everything, but it wasn't televised, so I know as much as you do at this point. Still although the outcome really doesn't matter in spring training, it's good to see the Phils get off to a good start for once.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
It's over, it's finally over and none too soon. A season that just weeks ago had started to look so promising for Flyers, had begun to unravel over the last week in and a half in the wake of a 10 game losing streak. Tonight, however, a miracle rally against the Buffalo Sabres finally got the Flyers out of it. Marty Biron got the start in goal and after having a rough start, allowing three goals in the first period, he buckled down and kept Buffalo out of the net the rest of the way, setting the stage for an Orange and black comeback. Early in the first period of play, Derek Roy and Chris Macarthur each scored for a quick 2-0 Sabres lead. Then late in period Jay Pominiville scored for a 3-0 Sabres lead. Finally Scott Hartnell and Jeff Carter answered a few minutes later to cut the lead to a manageable 3-2 heading into the 2nd period. In the 2nd period the two teams went scoreless. In the 3rd period it became a real test of wills, that Buffalo appeared to be winning, but with just over 8 minutes to play in the period, R.J Umberger slapped in the equalizer and it was all tied at 3. An overtime period then yielded only 4 shots on goal and no results. So the game went to a decisive shootout, usually a harbinger of impending doom for the Flyers, but not this time. In the first round of the shootout both teams failed to score. In the second round of the shootout, Jeff Carter scored for the Flyers, and Jan Spacek scored for the Sabres. In the 3rd round of the shootout Derek Roy failed to score for the Sabres, so it came down to a final confrontation between ex-Sabre captain Danny Briere and current Sabre goalie Ryan Miller. This time with a perfect fake, Briere prevailed and the Flyers had won 4-3 for 2 big points. So the Flyers improve to 31-25-7 overall, remain 4th in the Atlantic division, but move back up into 8th in the Eastern conference, for that coveted final playoff spot.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
PHILLIES NEWS
Well, as you probably know by now the Phillies have begun spring training and as luck would have it there is already bad news to report. The biggest offseason pickup for the Phils was veteran closer Brad Lidge. Unfortunately during an early batting practice toss last week he tweeked his knee. The same knee that kept him out for a while last season. While he was hopeful, it was just some torn cartilege from the knee surgery he underwent this offseason, it turned out to be a bit more serious and on Monday he will have to undergo Arthroscopic knee surgery again. Thus, he will likely miss 3 to 6 weeks and might miss opening day, which would not be a disaster, but it would be rather unpleasant. So while this is not a crushing blow to the Phils it is a bit unsettling to say the least.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
After a tough loss to Orlando last night the Sixers shot on over to Miami to face the now Shaqless Heat. Still, Shaq or no Shag, the Sixers still needed every ounce of effort possible to hang on in this one. Offensively, four Sixers scored in double figures(Willie Green, Andre Miller, Andre Iguodala, Louis Williams) with Miller and Iggy's 24 each leading the way. Defensively, Samuel Dalembert lead the way with 11 rebounds and a block, and Iguodala chipped in for 12 rebounds as the Sixers dominated the boards 50-33. However, with 23 turnovers the Sixers were sloppy with the ball and so Miami was able to hang around when they shouldn't have able to. In the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumped out a 5 point lead, with the score 24-19. In the second quarter Miami rallied back and by the half it was only a 2 point game, with the score 51-49. In the third quarter of play, Miami continued to rally and heading into 4th quarter, it was all tied at 73. In the 4th quarter the two teams were even all the way and by the end of regulation it was still all tied up at 91. Finally, in the overtime period ,Miami took the lead early, but the Sixers battled back, pulled ahead with just over a minute to play and hung on to win 101-96. So the Sixers improve to 25-32 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern conference.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyer's downhill plummet continued tonight in more ways than one as they dropped their 10th in a row, to the Florida Panthers. Antero Niittymaki got the start in goal and despite facing 40 shots on goal, in regulation, he only allowed on goal. So almost single-handedly he kept the Flyer's in it but it wasn't enough. In the first period of play there was no score. Early in the 2nd period of play Danny Briere, who had been in a bit of a slump himself lit the lamp for a 1-0 Flyer's lead. For a while it appeared that goal would be the only one of the night en route to a Niittymaki shutout and a huge Flyer's win. Instead with just over 8 minutes to play, Jay Bouwmeester scored Florida's first goal of the night to forge a 1-1 tie and thwart the Flyer's chances for a win. From there both teams were scoreless until the end of regulation, setting the stage for an overtime period. There, the two teams combined for only 4 shots on goal, the Flyers with 1, and Florida with 3, but all the Panthers would need would be their last shot. Only 3 minutes into the period the Panthers went on the power play and Olli Jokinen slapped in a power play goal to win it for the Panthers 2-1. So the Flyer's drop to 30-26-7 overall, but since this was an overtime loss, they do earn a point, and at least for now, move back into a tie for 4th place in the Atlantic division. Sadly, things only got worse afterwards when the Flyers learned that Mike Richards had gone down with a torn hamstring during the game and will likely miss 3 weeks, and so this losing streak may never end.
Friday, February 22, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
After their dominating win over the Knicks Wednesday, the Sixers traveled to Orlando to face the Magic. A win for the Sixers would have proved to the NBA that they are legitimate playoff contenders and maybe that they belong among the Eastern conference elite. Instead after a tough loss this game only proved that the Sixers aren't quite ready to make that step yet. Still, a playoff visit, providing them with invaluable experience is within reach for them. Offensively, four Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Iguodala, Andre Miller, Willie Green, Louis Williams) with Miller and Iggy's 25 each leading the way. Defensively, it was another quality team effort, but it was of little consequence in a game such as this between two teams with similar skill sets. In short, it came down not to who played well and who didn't, but rather to which team played their game better, and clearly at this point that mental victory will still go superman, Dwight Howard, and the Magic every time. Through the first period of play the Magic jumped out to a ten point lead with the score 26-16. In the second quarter of play, Orlando stayed firm and increased their lead to thirteen, with the score 53-40 at the half. In the 3rd quarter of play the Sixers sunk their teeth in and got back into it cutting the lead to 10, with score 76-66 heading into the 4th. Finally, in the 4th quarter of play, the Sixers stayed with Orlando most of time, but try as they might they couldn't pull back even with them, and eventually the Magic held on to win, 115-99, a final score cleary misleading the reader to believe the game was not closer than it would indicate. So the Sixers drop to 24-32 overall, but remain 4th in the Atlantic division, still .5 games behind the Nets and still 8th in the Eastern conference.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The misery continues for the Flyers, as they welcomed the San Jose Sharks to the Wachovia Center tonight. Once again the defense lagged. Once again Marty Biron was left to face a barrage of 40 shots on goal and to his credit somehow only allowed three goals. Once again the Flyers couldn't come up with much offense and actually failed to even register a power play opportunity, let alone a goal. Once again with this their 10th straight loss it can't get any worse than this. Late in the first period of play Jonathan Cheecho scored for a 1-0 Sharks lead. Late in the second period of play Mike Knuble scored to tie it up at 1 for the Flyers. Early in the third period of play Milan Michalek and Douglas Murray each scored a minute between each other for a quick 3-1 Sharks lead. From there the Flyers had no answer and succumbed to the Sharks 3-1. So the Flyers drop to 30-25-6 overall and into last place in the Atlantic division, and more depressingly down into 10th place in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
The verdict is in and the winner of the abritration hearing between the Phils and Ryan Howard is Ryan Howard which means he will get the $10 million from the Phils that he deserves, instead of the 7 million they were trying to give him. Although this matter probably shouldn't have needed to go to arbitration, it is good to see the right party come out on top. If only all arbitration hearings could go like this.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers regrouped from their crushing loss in Minnesota on Monday and returned to the friendly confines of the Wachovia center to take their frustrations out on the woeful Knicks. Offensively, six Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Miller, Willie Green, Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, Louis Williams, Rodney Carney) with Green's 21 leading the way. Miller also chipped in with 10 assists, so the Sixer's offense scored early, often, and never stopped firing. Defensively, it was a team effort, and a good one, even though they didn't need to be. The Knicks played so poorly that even an average defensive night for the Sixers would have held their offense in check. All told the Sixers' out rebounded New York, 43-31, forced them to commit a whopping 23 turnovers, and held them to just 45.9% shooting from the field. In short, it was just an ugly night for the Knicks. Through the first quarter of play, the Sixers jumped out to a convincing 20 point lead, with the score 37-17, and never looked back. In the second quarter the Sixers lead only grew to 36, with the score 72-36 at the half. In the 3rd quarter of play the Sixers continued to dominate as their lead ballooned to 45, with the score 102-57. Basically the game was over at this point, but the rules say you have to play 4 quarters so they did and when it was over, the Sixers had destroyed the Knicks by 40, with final score 124-84. So the Sixers improve to 24-31 overall but remain in 4th place in the Atlantic division and 8th in the Eastern Conference.
FLYERS NEWS
There is more bad news for the Flyers tonight. Simon Gagne is reportedly done for the season after his most recent mild concussion. He has continued to experience symptoms from it and apparently will not be able to come back from it this season. I just hope he's not done for good, like Keith Primeau and Eric Lindros before him.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
SIXERS NEWS
While the Flyers started it, the Sixers finished the excruciating night for Philly sports against the Timberwolves in Minnesota. After finishing the first half of the season with 5 straight wins, the Sixers were looking to pick up where they left off to start the second half of the season. Instead the T-wolves had other ideas. Offensively, three Sixers scored in double figures(Andre Miller, Thaddeus Young, Andre Iguodala) with Iggy's 17 leading the way. Defensively, It was a team effort and not a very good one as the Sixers were out rebounded 45-39, and allowed the T-Wolves to shoot nearly 50% from the field. It was the defense, specifically, timely steals and rebounds that had carried the Sixers through their winning streak and without it they were lost. In the first quarter of play, the T-Wolves jumped out to a six point lead with the score 23-17. In the 2nd quarter the T-wolves continued to play solid ball, and increased their lead to 9, with the score 53-44. In the 3rd quarter Minnesota continued to front run and increased their lead to 12, with the score, 74-62. Finally, in the 4th quarter Minnesota simply continued to hold the Sixer's at arm's length and pushed their lead to 16 for the laughable final score, 104-88. So the Sixers drop to 23-31 overall and back into 4th place in the Atlantic division, by .5 games.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers began an excruciating night tonight for Philly sports, by taking it on the chin in Ottawa at the hands of the Eastern conference leading Senators, for their 8th straight loss. Marty Biron got the start in goal, and had a solid night as the Flyer's defense picked up again and allowed only 25 shots on goal, of which Biron saved 23. Early in the first period of play Chris Kelly scored shorthanded for 1-0 Senators lead. Late in the 2nd period of play Antoine Vermette scored for a 2-0 Ottawa lead. A few minutes later Kimmo Timonen answered for the Flyers to cut the lead to 2-1. Early in the 3rd period of play, Scottie Upshall tied it at 2. Thanks to the solid play of Biron and his counterpart Ray Emery it stayed that way until the end of regulation. The overtime period went scoreless, setting the stage for a decisive shootout. In the first round of the shootout both teams came up empty. In the second round of the shootout, Timonen scored for the Flyers, and Vermette scored for Ottawa, to tie the shootout at 1. In the 3rd round of the shootout Danny Briere failed to score for the Flyers , while Jason Spezza scored to win it for Ottawa. So Ottawa got the 3-2 win in a shootout and the Flyers drop to 30-24-6 overall, but since the game went to a shootout, they at least get a point for their troubles and remain in 4th place in the Atlantic division.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers continued to struggle tonight as they finished their home and home with the Canadiens at home in the Wachovia center. Antero Niittymaki got another start in goal after his stellar performance in the Flyer's last game and well, he wasn't so stellar this time around, but that had more to do wth the Flyer's defense that allowed 32 shots on goal, than with him. Anyway, midway through the first period of play, Alexie Kovalev made it 1-0 Montreal. A few minutes later Mike Richards tied at 1 for the Flyers. Then late in the period Fredrick Bouillon made it 2-1 Habs. Early in the second period of play Braydon Coburn tied it at 2 for the Flyers. A couple minutes later Mike Ryder made it 3-2 Montreal. Then late in the period Saku Koivu made it 4-2 Montreal. It stayed that way until with less than two minutes to play in the 3rd period, the Flyers pulled Niittymaki in an attempt to come up with one last rally. It didn't work. Micheal Lapierre scored on the empty net for a 5-2 Habs lead and that was about all she wrote. With under 20 seconds to play Riley Cote scored a meaningless goal to make the final score 5-3 Canadiens. So the Flyers drop to 30-24-5 overall and down to 4th place in the Atlantic division.
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