In his spring debut, Roy Oswalt allowed 1 run on 2 hits while striking out 1 in 2 innings. Meanwhile, Ryan Howard collected his first RBI of the spring with a double but it was for naught as the Phils fell to the Orioles 6-5.
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
EAGLES NEWS
Mike Vick has signed the Eagles one year franchise tender which means he will be back with the Birds next season if there is a next season.
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The 2nd hottest team in the NBA locked in a battle with the hottest team in the NBA tonight at Wells Fargo as the Sixers battled the Mavericks. Unfortunately, as Donovan McNabb would say, they should their youth in the closing minutes of the game and came up a bit short against the more experienced Mavs. 58% shooting from the foul line and multiple 4th quarter turnovers really hurt them, as did Jason Terry who came off the bench for 30 and Dirk who had 22 despite not hitting a 3 all night. The top performers for the Sixers were Andre Iguodala with 15 and 7 rebounds, Jrue Holiday with 14, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, Elton Brand with 12 and 6 rebounds, Jodie Meeks who drilled 4 treys and wound up with 16, and Thad Young who had 13 and 7 rebounds, all of whom took a nose dive when it really mattered in the games final minutes.
Early on the Sixers just tried to hang in there with them and actually were down by 1 after the 1st quarter. In the 2nd quarter they continued to stay close and trailed by just 7 at the half. In the 3rd quarter they finally started to make a push for lead, actually pulling even at one point, before settling for a 2 point deficit heading into the 4th. The two teams stayed neck and neck for much of the 4th quarter. The Mavs would drill a big shot and the Sixers would invariably answer. As late as the 1:41 mark of the 4th the Sixers were within 1, and that was were things slipped away. After Dirk drained a deuce to make it a 3 point game Holiday was blocked on a drive to the basket and Jason Terry took the ball the other way and dunked for a 5 point lead. That was as close as the Sixers would get the rest of the way. They missed 4 free throws in a row after that while the Mavs sunk their freebies to close out a 101-93 win and a season sweep of the Sixers.
Early on the Sixers just tried to hang in there with them and actually were down by 1 after the 1st quarter. In the 2nd quarter they continued to stay close and trailed by just 7 at the half. In the 3rd quarter they finally started to make a push for lead, actually pulling even at one point, before settling for a 2 point deficit heading into the 4th. The two teams stayed neck and neck for much of the 4th quarter. The Mavs would drill a big shot and the Sixers would invariably answer. As late as the 1:41 mark of the 4th the Sixers were within 1, and that was were things slipped away. After Dirk drained a deuce to make it a 3 point game Holiday was blocked on a drive to the basket and Jason Terry took the ball the other way and dunked for a 5 point lead. That was as close as the Sixers would get the rest of the way. They missed 4 free throws in a row after that while the Mavs sunk their freebies to close out a 101-93 win and a season sweep of the Sixers.
PHILLIES NEWS
Cliff Lee was a little wild in his spring debut with a walk and a hit batsmen, while allowing 2 runs on 1 hit and striking out 3 in 2 innings of work as the Phils lost the Tigers 6-2.
Monday, February 28, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers made just one move at the trading deadline, sending prospects Greg Moore and Micheal Chaput to the Columbus Blue Jackets for bearly left winger Tommy Sestito. Sestito is expected to report to the Phantoms and probably won't play for the Flyers this season. Next year he'll be a valued commodity since he can fight and score and is the most likely candidate to replace free agent Dan Carcillo next season.
PHILLIES NEWS
Ben Francisco collected another RBI and Roy Halladay tossed 2 scoreless innings as the Phils continued spring training with a 6-3 win over the Toronto Blue Jays.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Cleveland tonight as they looked to get over .500 for the first time all season. Once again they put forth a solid all around effor, not quite as good as in their last two games but certainly good enough to win this one. Still, Cleveland didn't make it easy and the Sixers had to use all of their experience from heartbreaking losses early in the season to pull it out in the end. Defensively, they racked up another 8 blocks and 10 steals and held the Cavs to just 21% shooting from beyond. Meanwhile, the Sixers shot 45% from beyond and decent 49% from the field as 6 Sixers scored in double figures. Elton Brand led the way with 16 and 8 rebounds, while Jrue Holiday had a big 13, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds, Jodie Meeks drilled two key treys and finished with 14, and off the bench Evan Turner had 10, Thad Young had 12 and 5 rebounds and Lou Williams had 16.
The Sixers were solid but not great all game long, and actually trailed by one after the 1st quarter. In the 2nd quarter they picked it up on both sides of the ball and went into the half up by 6. They kept it up in the 3rd quarter, expanding the lead to as many as 15, before settling for an 11 point cushion heading into the 4th. As late as the 8 minute mark in the 4th the Sixers had the lead at 12 and were in control. They then went cold from the field for a while from there and Cleveland was able to make a late push to cut the lead to down to as little as 3 with 4 minutes to play. After that a Holiday layup and a Meeks trey quickly pushed the lead back to 8 before Cleveland cut it to 3 again and got the ball with 29 seconds left. Thad Young then got a huge steal with 13 seconds left and got the ball to Holiday to drilled a pair of freebies to push the lead back to 5. Daniel Gibson followed with a clutch trey to cut the lead to 2 but Meeks was able to sink a couple more free throws after that and a couple Cavs misses later and the Sixers had hung on to win 95-91. With the win they move over .500 to 30-29 overall but remain 7th in the East, 1 game out 6th.
The Sixers were solid but not great all game long, and actually trailed by one after the 1st quarter. In the 2nd quarter they picked it up on both sides of the ball and went into the half up by 6. They kept it up in the 3rd quarter, expanding the lead to as many as 15, before settling for an 11 point cushion heading into the 4th. As late as the 8 minute mark in the 4th the Sixers had the lead at 12 and were in control. They then went cold from the field for a while from there and Cleveland was able to make a late push to cut the lead to down to as little as 3 with 4 minutes to play. After that a Holiday layup and a Meeks trey quickly pushed the lead back to 8 before Cleveland cut it to 3 again and got the ball with 29 seconds left. Thad Young then got a huge steal with 13 seconds left and got the ball to Holiday to drilled a pair of freebies to push the lead back to 5. Daniel Gibson followed with a clutch trey to cut the lead to 2 but Meeks was able to sink a couple more free throws after that and a couple Cavs misses later and the Sixers had hung on to win 95-91. With the win they move over .500 to 30-29 overall but remain 7th in the East, 1 game out 6th.
PHILLIES NEWS
Ben Francisco knocked in 3 runs on a double and a 2 run homer and Joe Blanton tossed 3 scoreless innings while allowing no hits and striking out 1, but the Phils still suffered their first actual spring training loss, falling to the Yankees 7-3.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
There's been a lot of talk lately, some of it warranted and some not, about the Flyers not putting in full efforts night in and night out. Unfortunately tonight was no different, but this time they at least had a decent excuse with Chris Pronger out, Blair Betts still out, and James Van Reimsdyk loaned to the Phantoms for the night to make room for waiver pickup, defenseman Nick Boynton. Unfortunately Boynton couldn't make it out to Ottawa for the game tonight, so rookie Erik Gustaffson, recently called up from the Phantoms, took his place in lineup and in turn forced JVR to sit the night out. As a result the Orange and Black just didn't have the same energy tonight as they've had most of the season until recently. Still with the Senators, last in the Eastern conference, their opponents they shouldn't have needed that much energy. In the end though they just picked wrong night to come into Ottawa flat.
It was really just a bad night for the Flyers all around. They went 0 for 4 on the power play while allowing the Senators to go 2 for 3. Brian Boucher was also mediocre stopping just 25 of 29 shots. Moreover the Orange and Black compiled just 31 shots on goal and only 16 all together after the first period. In the 1st period things looked good as the Flyers out shot Ottawa 15 -3 and took a 1-0 lead as Nikolay Zherdev fed Scott Hartnell perfectly on a breakaway score. Unfortunately after that the Flyers just seemed to shut it down completely, while the Senators amped it up physically the rest of the way and rolled a disheartening and disconcerting 4-1 win. Hopefully this was only a one night thing for the Flyers but it does make you wonder a bit.
It was really just a bad night for the Flyers all around. They went 0 for 4 on the power play while allowing the Senators to go 2 for 3. Brian Boucher was also mediocre stopping just 25 of 29 shots. Moreover the Orange and Black compiled just 31 shots on goal and only 16 all together after the first period. In the 1st period things looked good as the Flyers out shot Ottawa 15 -3 and took a 1-0 lead as Nikolay Zherdev fed Scott Hartnell perfectly on a breakaway score. Unfortunately after that the Flyers just seemed to shut it down completely, while the Senators amped it up physically the rest of the way and rolled a disheartening and disconcerting 4-1 win. Hopefully this was only a one night thing for the Flyers but it does make you wonder a bit.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils started spring on the the right foot as Cole Hamels allowed 1 run on 1hit while striking out 2 in 2 innings, and Dane Sardinha cracked a RBI single in thee 8th inning to lift the Phils over the Yankees 5-4 in their spring training opener. The Phils also played the Yankees in a B game, losing 8-1 as Danys Baez struggled mightily in relief.
Friday, February 25, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the Pistons to the Wells Fargo center tonight as they looked to hit the .500 mark for the first time all season. Prior to the game the Pistons staged a semi protest against head coach John Kuestner and as a result, only 6 Detroit players dressed for the game. So after a half they weren't much of an obstacle. The Sixers again were too much on both sides of the ball. Defensively, they racked up another 8 blocks and 7 steals and ruled the glass 49-32. Offensively, the Sixers shot 52% from the field in a dunk fest as the 5 Sixers scored in double figures. Andre Iguodala led the way with 21, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Elton Brand notched another double double with 20 and 17 rebounds and Jrue Holiday did likewise with 12 and 10 rebounds. Thad Young and Mo Speights were also big off the bench, with 24 and 12 respectively.
The Sixers took control right away with a 7 point lead after the 1st quarter of play. They continued to play well in the 2nd quarter but couldn't quite shake the Pistons just yet with just a 10 point lead the half. The Pistons continued to hang in there in the 3rd quarter as the Sixers took an 11 point lead into the 4th quarter. Finally in the 4th quarter the Pistons tired and began turning the ball over, leading to a series of fast breaks and dunks that helped the Sixers build their lead into the 20s before cruising to a 16 point win, 110-94.
The Sixers took control right away with a 7 point lead after the 1st quarter of play. They continued to play well in the 2nd quarter but couldn't quite shake the Pistons just yet with just a 10 point lead the half. The Pistons continued to hang in there in the 3rd quarter as the Sixers took an 11 point lead into the 4th quarter. Finally in the 4th quarter the Pistons tired and began turning the ball over, leading to a series of fast breaks and dunks that helped the Sixers build their lead into the 20s before cruising to a 16 point win, 110-94.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
After falling to the Coyotes in overtime the Flyers looked to right the ship tonight as they welcomed the New York Islanders to Wells Fargo center. Coming in the Flyers had defeated the Islanders 10 straight times. Make that 11. It wasn't easy though. Sergei Bobrovsky had to have another spectacular night stopping 32 of 35 shots, Claude Giroux had to be superman with 2 assists and great hustle alll night, and Andrej Meszaros had to be a late hero again.
Early on the Islanders scored on a breakaway and actually led 1-0 after the 1st period. It was all Flyers in the 2nd period with Scott Hartnell and Mike Richards teaming up to knot it at 1, and Giroux setting up James Van Reimsdyk with an open net for a 2-1 lead. Early in the 3rd period Claude Giroux was at it again, assisting Jeff Carter for a 3-1 lead. Unfortunately it didn't last. Matt Martin scored twice in the final 15 minutes to tie things up at 3 and then game went into overtime. There with just 18 seconds remaining, Andrej Meszaros drilled one past Al Montoya to secure the 4-3 Flyer win.
Early on the Islanders scored on a breakaway and actually led 1-0 after the 1st period. It was all Flyers in the 2nd period with Scott Hartnell and Mike Richards teaming up to knot it at 1, and Giroux setting up James Van Reimsdyk with an open net for a 2-1 lead. Early in the 3rd period Claude Giroux was at it again, assisting Jeff Carter for a 3-1 lead. Unfortunately it didn't last. Matt Martin scored twice in the final 15 minutes to tie things up at 3 and then game went into overtime. There with just 18 seconds remaining, Andrej Meszaros drilled one past Al Montoya to secure the 4-3 Flyer win.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers returned from the all star break tonight with a matchup against John Wall and the Wizards at the Wells Fargo center. Coming in the Wizards were just 1-28 on the road this season and the Sixers were geared up to ensure things wouldn't get any better in this one. Frankly they were just too good for Washington on this night. Defensively, they racked up 7 blocks and 6 steals and destroyed the Wizards on the boards, 49-34. Offensively, they shot 51% from the field, 47% from beyond, and 87% from the line as 7 Sixers scored in double figures. Jrue Holiday led the way with 20 on 66% shooting. Among the starters, Elton Brand also had 15 and 6 rebounds, Andre Iguodala had 10, 5 assists, and 7 rebounds, and Jodie Meeks drilled a pair of threes and wound up with 12. Meanwhile, off the bench Evan Turner had 15 and 8 rebounds, Thad Young had 18 and 10 reobunds, and Mo Speights in rare extended playing time, put up 14 and 7 rebounds.
Believe it or not Washington actually came out shooting well and took a 31-24 lead after a quarter of play. The Sixers picked up in the 2nd quarter and rallied ahead by 5 at the half. They then dominated the 3rd quarter and rolled into the 4th quarter up by 24. The two teams essentially traded baskets the rest of the way as the Sixers cruised to a 23 point win, 117-94.
Believe it or not Washington actually came out shooting well and took a 31-24 lead after a quarter of play. The Sixers picked up in the 2nd quarter and rallied ahead by 5 at the half. They then dominated the 3rd quarter and rolled into the 4th quarter up by 24. The two teams essentially traded baskets the rest of the way as the Sixers cruised to a 23 point win, 117-94.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers have waived forward Nikolay Zherdev. This is not a surprise as he's played very sparingly for most of the season, due to his lack of commitment on the defense end and his inability to fit in with the Orange and Black's other forwards. He now has to pass through waivers to join the Phantoms for now. It's doubtful anyone will claim before he does.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers scoring woes continued tonight at home as the Coyotes visited the Wells Fargo center. They did have 37 shots on goal which is okay, but only one of them found the net. They also continued to struggle on the power play, going 0 for 5. Still, the defense continued to be very good, holding Phoenix to just 29 shots on goal and 1 for 4 on the power play. Sergei was a big part of that 1 for 4 with 26 strong savesm but in the end his efforts came up just a bit short and that was the difference.
Just 6 minutes into the 1st period Matt Carle and Danny Briere assisted Ville Leino for a 1-0 lead. Thanks to the Flyers defense and Bobrovsky it stayed that way all the way into the 3rd period. Just a couple minutes into the 3rd the Coyotes knotted things up at 1. Then about halfway through the period Phoenix went up 2-1. Just when it seemed the Coyotes were headed to victory, Jeff Carter and Mike Richards teamed up to assist Claude Giroux on the equalizer with a just over a minute to play. Neither team scored again in regulation after that and the game went into overtime. Just under 3 minutes into the overtime period Shane Doan beat Bobrovsky for the 3-2 Coyotes win.
Just 6 minutes into the 1st period Matt Carle and Danny Briere assisted Ville Leino for a 1-0 lead. Thanks to the Flyers defense and Bobrovsky it stayed that way all the way into the 3rd period. Just a couple minutes into the 3rd the Coyotes knotted things up at 1. Then about halfway through the period Phoenix went up 2-1. Just when it seemed the Coyotes were headed to victory, Jeff Carter and Mike Richards teamed up to assist Claude Giroux on the equalizer with a just over a minute to play. Neither team scored again in regulation after that and the game went into overtime. Just under 3 minutes into the overtime period Shane Doan beat Bobrovsky for the 3-2 Coyotes win.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sunday, February 20, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers finally finished off their road trip this afternoon in New York as they took on the Rangers with Hockey Day in America bragging rights on the line. Looking exhausted from their trip, and undermanned with Blair Betts still out, Mike Richards still limited by the Flu, and Sean O'Donnell lost to an injury just two minutes into the game, the Flyers put forth their most courageous performance of the season thus far. Even Brian Boucher got into the act, playing through a stinger with the game on the line in the 3rd period and not missing a beat, as he racked up 37 saves in an awesome effort. Equally impressive were Jeff Carter and Claude Giroux who each had a goal and an assist. Perhaps most impressive though was the restraint of the Orange and Black who did not commit penalty all afternoon.
Halfway through the 1st period the Flyers actually trailed 1-0. Just a few minutes after falling behind they evened up at 1 as Claude Giroux and Scott Hartnell setup Jeff Carter for the score. Halfway through the 2nd period Carter backhanded a centering pass to Giroux who fired it in for a 2-1 lead. A few minutes later Braydon Coburn and Daroll Powe assisted Dan Carcillo for a 3-1 lead. New York then dominated much of 3rd period, cutting the lead to 3-2 just 5 minutes into the period and right after Boucher suffered the stinger. Boucher ensured New York would not get the equalizer after that and with about 50 seconds to play Kris Versteeg netted an empty netter for his first goal as a Flyer to cap off the stirring 4-2 victory. With the win the Flyers move to 83 points overall and remain 8 points up in the Eastern conference and 6 points up in the Atlantic division.
Halfway through the 1st period the Flyers actually trailed 1-0. Just a few minutes after falling behind they evened up at 1 as Claude Giroux and Scott Hartnell setup Jeff Carter for the score. Halfway through the 2nd period Carter backhanded a centering pass to Giroux who fired it in for a 2-1 lead. A few minutes later Braydon Coburn and Daroll Powe assisted Dan Carcillo for a 3-1 lead. New York then dominated much of 3rd period, cutting the lead to 3-2 just 5 minutes into the period and right after Boucher suffered the stinger. Boucher ensured New York would not get the equalizer after that and with about 50 seconds to play Kris Versteeg netted an empty netter for his first goal as a Flyer to cap off the stirring 4-2 victory. With the win the Flyers move to 83 points overall and remain 8 points up in the Eastern conference and 6 points up in the Atlantic division.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles have signed ex Bengals LB Rashad Jeanty. He started 32 games for the Bengals from 2006-2009 and was a standout on special teams before breaking his fibula while blocking for Bernard Scott on his 56 yard touchdown return during the Bengals 2009 wild card playoff game. He hasn't played since as the Bengals released him back in the 2010 preseason. For the Eagles he simply adds what a little veteran depth the Eagles can add until a new CBA is signed. At most for the Birds he'll be a special teams player or he won't make the team at all.
In other more somber Bird's news, hall of fame running back Ollie Matson, who spent his last 3 seasons with the Eagles from 1964-1966, died Sunday of respiratory failure. He was 80 years old.
In other more somber Bird's news, hall of fame running back Ollie Matson, who spent his last 3 seasons with the Eagles from 1964-1966, died Sunday of respiratory failure. He was 80 years old.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
It was a special night in Carolina as beloved ex-Flyer and Hurricane Rod Brindamour had his number retired. No doubt inspired to honor Roddy with a victory, the Hurricanes, currently 8th in the East, were a little too much for the Orange and Black on this night. Aside from Roddy's inspiration, the absence of Mike Richards from the starting lineup thanks to flu symptoms, and an injury to Blair Betts during the game also hurt the Flyer's cause. Still, thanks to another 26 spectacular saves by Sergei Bobrovsky the Orange and Black were at least able to force the Canes to earn it.
The Flyers actually came out a little flat and found themselves down 2-0 after the first period. As usual, they did not give up. Early in the 2nd period Blair Betts scored shorthanded to cut it to 2-1, but he was lost to an injury shortly thereafter. Despite his departure the Flyers kept fighting and with about 5 minutes to play in the 3rd period Braydon Coburn wristed home a rebound to knot it up at 2. The tie didn't last long though. Just a couple minutes later Erik Cole broke away with Olli Jokinen and beat a sprawling Bobrovsky for a 3-2 lead. The Flyers fought hard the rest of the way but unfortunately they could not come up with the equalizer and fell 3-2.
The Flyers actually came out a little flat and found themselves down 2-0 after the first period. As usual, they did not give up. Early in the 2nd period Blair Betts scored shorthanded to cut it to 2-1, but he was lost to an injury shortly thereafter. Despite his departure the Flyers kept fighting and with about 5 minutes to play in the 3rd period Braydon Coburn wristed home a rebound to knot it up at 2. The tie didn't last long though. Just a couple minutes later Erik Cole broke away with Olli Jokinen and beat a sprawling Bobrovsky for a 3-2 lead. The Flyers fought hard the rest of the way but unfortunately they could not come up with the equalizer and fell 3-2.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers went into the all star break tonight by using a solid all around effort to take down a solid Houston Rockets team. They really did it all. They out rebounded Houston 50-40 and did a good job limiting the effective of most of the Rockets, except for Kyle Lowry who went for 6 for 9 from beyond and scored 36. Meanwhile, Andre Iguodala had a triple double, with 13, 12 rebounds,and 10 assists, Elton Brand had a double double with 10 and 11 rebounds, Spencer Hawes also had a double double with 17 and 10 rebounds, Jrue Holiday was huge with 20 and 8 assists, Evan Turner was stellar with 10 and 6 rebounds and Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams were big off the bench as well with 19 each.
Despite the overall solid play of the Sixers Kyle Lowry's hot shooting kept things close all night long. The game was actually tied after a quarter of play. By the half the Sixers had eeked ahead by 3. In the 3rd quarter the Sixers continued to be just a bit better as they extended to an 8 point lead. Lowry and the Rockets did a go on a run to start for the 4th quarter, but the Sixers withstood the challenge and eventually hung to win by 9. So they head into the all star break at 27-29 overall and 7th in the Eastern conference. Not bad they considering they started the season 3-13.
Despite the overall solid play of the Sixers Kyle Lowry's hot shooting kept things close all night long. The game was actually tied after a quarter of play. By the half the Sixers had eeked ahead by 3. In the 3rd quarter the Sixers continued to be just a bit better as they extended to an 8 point lead. Lowry and the Rockets did a go on a run to start for the 4th quarter, but the Sixers withstood the challenge and eventually hung to win by 9. So they head into the all star break at 27-29 overall and 7th in the Eastern conference. Not bad they considering they started the season 3-13.
FLYERS NEWS
Following their biggest win of the season the Flyers traveled just across the state for a matchup with the Panthers as they went for a Florida sweep. Despite clear exhaustion late in the game the Flyers did ultimatley pull out another one and complete the sweep. Danny Briere took care of the offense with a goal and 2 assists and Sergei Bobrovsky took care of things on the other end with a spectaclurar 33 save night.
Just over 8 and half minutes into the 1st period Kris Versteeg teamed with Dan Carcillo to earn his point as a Flyer with an assist on a pretty goal by Mike Richards. Just about a minute later Briere and Scott Hartnell setup Andreas Nodl for a 2-0 lead. Early in the 2nd period Chris Pronger saucered a perfect pass to Briere who took it into the Florida zone in stride and weaved his way in on goal before leaving it for James Van Reimsdyk who scored easily for a 3-0 lead. After Florida went on a run to cut it to 3-2 halfway through the 3rd period, Bobrovsky tightened up and made a couple spectacular saves to keep the tiring Flyers ahead. Finally with about 20 seconds to play Briere tallied an empty netter to cap off a solid 4-2 win.
Just over 8 and half minutes into the 1st period Kris Versteeg teamed with Dan Carcillo to earn his point as a Flyer with an assist on a pretty goal by Mike Richards. Just about a minute later Briere and Scott Hartnell setup Andreas Nodl for a 2-0 lead. Early in the 2nd period Chris Pronger saucered a perfect pass to Briere who took it into the Florida zone in stride and weaved his way in on goal before leaving it for James Van Reimsdyk who scored easily for a 3-0 lead. After Florida went on a run to cut it to 3-2 halfway through the 3rd period, Bobrovsky tightened up and made a couple spectacular saves to keep the tiring Flyers ahead. Finally with about 20 seconds to play Briere tallied an empty netter to cap off a solid 4-2 win.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
If there were doubts about the Flyers chances of returning to the Stanley Cup Finals this season, the lied within the though of the facing the Tampa Bay Lightning in the conference finals or earlier. Tampa Bay had defeated the Flyers in all of the 3 of the team's meetings coming into tonight and another win would have brought the Lightning dangerously close to the Orange and Black in the Eastern conference standings at just 4 points back. Fortunately, Brian Boucher's 24 saves and James Van Reimsdyk's Gordie Howe hat trick (goal, assist, and fight) ensured that they would not be able to do so.
Halfway through the 1st period Claude Giroux and Jeff Carter setup JVR for a 1-0 lead. Just over 7 and a half minutes into the 2nd period a JVR blast deflected in off Scott Hartnell for a power play goal and a 2-1 lead. A minute later Darroll Powe converted a penalty shot for a 3-1 lead and the Flyers seemed to a have win locked up. Not so fast. Just 2 minutes later Tampa tied it up at 3 and the outcome was back in doubt. Both goaltenders, Boucher and Dwayne Roloson, stepped it up after that as the game went through the 3rd period and overtime with no further scoring. In the shootout Danny Briere and Claude Giroux both failed while Dominic Moore scored for Tampa to give them a 1-0 advantage. Mike Richards had to score in the 3rd round of the shootout to keep the game alive and he did. After 4 great saves by Boucher, and misses by Kris Versteeg, Carter, and Ville Leino, Kimmo Timonen finally gave the Flyers the edge in the shootout. Boucher followed with save on Martin St Louis and the Flyers had their 4-3 win over Tampa.
Halfway through the 1st period Claude Giroux and Jeff Carter setup JVR for a 1-0 lead. Just over 7 and a half minutes into the 2nd period a JVR blast deflected in off Scott Hartnell for a power play goal and a 2-1 lead. A minute later Darroll Powe converted a penalty shot for a 3-1 lead and the Flyers seemed to a have win locked up. Not so fast. Just 2 minutes later Tampa tied it up at 3 and the outcome was back in doubt. Both goaltenders, Boucher and Dwayne Roloson, stepped it up after that as the game went through the 3rd period and overtime with no further scoring. In the shootout Danny Briere and Claude Giroux both failed while Dominic Moore scored for Tampa to give them a 1-0 advantage. Mike Richards had to score in the 3rd round of the shootout to keep the game alive and he did. After 4 great saves by Boucher, and misses by Kris Versteeg, Carter, and Ville Leino, Kimmo Timonen finally gave the Flyers the edge in the shootout. Boucher followed with save on Martin St Louis and the Flyers had their 4-3 win over Tampa.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers chances of a long winning streak were thwarted tonight as they traveled to Memphis for a rematch with the Grizzlies. The last time these two teams met in Philly the Sixers had a huge lead late and blew it with a plethora turnovers. The taller and stronger Grizzlies continued to be a matchup nightmare for the Sixers in this one as they committed another 16 turnovers. They also came out flat early on which didn't help matters by putting them in a hole early. Their defense hung tough and kept them in it most of the night but it wasn't enough. It wasn't all bad though as Thad Young pumped in 23 off the bench and Lou Williams joined him on the bench with 18, while Elton Brand scored 13, and Jrue Holiday scored 10.
Thanks to poor shooting and a lack of energy early on the Sixers found themselves down 16 after the 1st quarter. They picked it up a bit in the 2nd quarter and managed to at least close within 11 at the half. Then in the 3rd quarter they kept it up on both ends of the floor, pulling within 2 heading into the 4th quarter. Unfortunately, in the 4th quarter the turnovers came into the play as the Sixers faded before falling to Memphis again by 11, 102-91.
Thanks to poor shooting and a lack of energy early on the Sixers found themselves down 16 after the 1st quarter. They picked it up a bit in the 2nd quarter and managed to at least close within 11 at the half. Then in the 3rd quarter they kept it up on both ends of the floor, pulling within 2 heading into the 4th quarter. Unfortunately, in the 4th quarter the turnovers came into the play as the Sixers faded before falling to Memphis again by 11, 102-91.
Monday, February 14, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers have acquired forward Kris Versteeg from the Toronto Maple Leafs for a 1st and 3rd round pick in the upcoming NHL draft. That may sound like a high price, but considering the Orange and Black would likely have been picking at the end of round 1, Versteeg is probably better than anyone they could have drafted. If the Flyers weren't deep before they are now with Versteeg in tow. Last year he helped the Blackhawks defeat the Flyers in the stanley cup finals and now he can help bring the cup here. He's a power forward can score goals in bunches, and create scoring opportunities for others and himself and he'll fit perfectly on the line with Mike Richards. So the bottom is that Versteeg is definite upgrade for this team and time will tell whether he's that last peace needed for a cup.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles have officially placed the franchise tag on Micheal Vick and the transition tag on David Akers. So both are very likely to be back with Birds next season, since any team that tries to sign them will have to worry about the Eagles matching their offer.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
The Orange and Black looked to keep the good times rolling this afternoon as the Kings stopped by the Wells Fargo center for a visit. Lately the Flyers had been relying on their defense to persevere but Peter Lavoliette looked to get the offense in on the action by changing up the lines for the 2nd contest in a row. Once again it didn't really work as Jonathan Quick's 40 brilliant saves shut the Orange and Black down completely, for just 5th time this season and 2nd time in the last 5 games.
Eventually the line shuffling will need to produce the intended result or you can expect more efforts like this afternoon's. On the other hand if Sergei Bobrovsky continues to play like he did today then maybe the Flyers won't have to do much offensively. Bobrovsky was the one bright spot in an otherwise flat performance by the Orange and Black. He stopped 24 of 25 shots, at times spectacularly, and was the sole reason the Flyers were in this one from start to finish. Unfortunately, his effort went for naught as the Orange and Black failed to cash in on 4 power play opportunities and multiple even strength scoring chances as they fell to the Kings 1-0.
Eventually the line shuffling will need to produce the intended result or you can expect more efforts like this afternoon's. On the other hand if Sergei Bobrovsky continues to play like he did today then maybe the Flyers won't have to do much offensively. Bobrovsky was the one bright spot in an otherwise flat performance by the Orange and Black. He stopped 24 of 25 shots, at times spectacularly, and was the sole reason the Flyers were in this one from start to finish. Unfortunately, his effort went for naught as the Orange and Black failed to cash in on 4 power play opportunities and multiple even strength scoring chances as they fell to the Kings 1-0.
PHILLIES NEWS
The unofficial beginning of spring commenced today as pitchers and catchers reported to Clearwater to begin the Phils most anticipated Spring training to date.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
Just one night after a momentous win over the Spurs the Sixers were ripe for a letdown tonight in Minnesota against Kevin Love and the lowly Timberwolves. Instead of letting down the Sixers showed how far they've come by easily handling Minnesota. Although the T-Wolves helped a lot by playing very poorly, the Sixers also played very well. Defensively, they held Minnesota to just 36% shooting from the field and 17% from beyond, while racking up 10 steals and forcing 15 turnovers. Meanwhile, 7 Sixers scored in double figures led by Thad Young's 18 off the bench. After Young, Jodie Meeks had 16, Andre Iguodala had 15, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds, Lou Williams had 13 and 5 assists, Elton Brand had 12 and 9 assists, Spencer Hawes had 12, and finally Jrue Holiday had 10 to round out the scoring.
Believe it or not the Sixers actually came out looking a little tired and trailed by 4 after the first quarter. After that they manned up and it was all Sixers the rest of the way. By the half they had rallied ahead by 4. By the 4th quarter they were up by 11 and in total control. The T-Wolves seemed to give up after that and when all was said and done the Sixers had rolled to a 20 point, 107-87 win. With the win they move to 26-28 overall and with a couple more wins in a row can finish at .500 before the all star break. They also move to within 1.5 games of the Knicks and 6th seed in the East.
Believe it or not the Sixers actually came out looking a little tired and trailed by 4 after the first quarter. After that they manned up and it was all Sixers the rest of the way. By the half they had rallied ahead by 4. By the 4th quarter they were up by 11 and in total control. The T-Wolves seemed to give up after that and when all was said and done the Sixers had rolled to a 20 point, 107-87 win. With the win they move to 26-28 overall and with a couple more wins in a row can finish at .500 before the all star break. They also move to within 1.5 games of the Knicks and 6th seed in the East.
Friday, February 11, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
After a tough loss to the Magic, things didn't figure to get any easier tonight as the San Antonio Spurs, holders of the top record in the NBA, visited the Wells Fargo center. In the end it was anything but easy for the Spurs who were held to just 33% shooting from the field and 17% shooting from beyond, as Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker combined for just 33 points. In addition the Sixers racked up 10 steals and forced 16 Spur turnovers to cap off a spectacular defensive effort. The Sixer's offense meanwhile, came down to two guys. Spencer Hawes was surprisingly good against the taller, stronger Spurs, with 13 and 8 rebounds, and Jrue Holiday had the game of his life with a career high 27 and 5 rebounds.
It was really a tight defensive struggle throughout. Early on it was the Sixers who actually had the upper hand, taking a 5 point lead into the 2nd quarter. The 2nd quarter belonged to the Spurs as they rallied back to tie things up at the half. The struggle continued in the 3rd quarter, with the Sixers eeking back out to a 2 point lead heading into the 4th quarter. In the 4th quarter the Spurs came out strong early, running out to a 5 point lead before the Sixers fought back and tie it and eventually retake the lead in the final 3 minutes. In the final minutes it was the Sixers defense that shone brightest and after Holiday sunk four three throws down the stretch the Sixers held on for the upset, 77-71. Yes Virginia, this team is for real.
It was really a tight defensive struggle throughout. Early on it was the Sixers who actually had the upper hand, taking a 5 point lead into the 2nd quarter. The 2nd quarter belonged to the Spurs as they rallied back to tie things up at the half. The struggle continued in the 3rd quarter, with the Sixers eeking back out to a 2 point lead heading into the 4th quarter. In the 4th quarter the Spurs came out strong early, running out to a 5 point lead before the Sixers fought back and tie it and eventually retake the lead in the final 3 minutes. In the final minutes it was the Sixers defense that shone brightest and after Holiday sunk four three throws down the stretch the Sixers held on for the upset, 77-71. Yes Virginia, this team is for real.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles have signed DE Philip Hunt, who led the CFL in sacks last season, to a 3 year deal. Multiple ex-CFL players have become NFL stars in the past, including Warren Moon and the AFC's #2 sacker last year, Cameron Wake. In addition, before joining the CFL Hunt, a former teammate of Kevin Kolb's at Houston university, was the 2008 conference USA defensive player of the year. Hunt has some tools and Jim Washburn has done more with less so who knows, maybe Hunt will be a diamond in the rough.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
FLYERS NEWS
All season the Flyers have struggled when coming off significant layoffs. Tonight after 4 days off they welcomed the Hurricanes to the Wells Fargo center and it was anyone's guess what would happen. As has been case all year the Orange and Black were again not at their best with only 25 shots on goal, but they stayed patient, didn't make mistakes, and fought hard defensively. So while the script wasn't much different the final result certainly was. The biggest reasons for that change were the penalty kill which rubbed out all 5 Hurricane pohttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=29451133wer plays and Brian Boucher who fell just 8 minutes short of the Flyers first shutout of the season thus far, while stopping 31 of 32 shots.
It was a true defensive struggle early on with both teams failing to score in the first 2 periods. Finally 18 seconds in the 3rd period Mike Richards and Chris Pronger setup Jeff Carter on the power play for a 1-0 lead. Halfway through the period the Orange and Black capitalized on another power play with Claude Giroux and Matt Carle setting up Danny Briere for a 2-0 lead. Finally a minute after that Carolina got on the board, but that would be all they would get as Boucher closed things down from there and cemented the 2-1 win.
It was a true defensive struggle early on with both teams failing to score in the first 2 periods. Finally 18 seconds in the 3rd period Mike Richards and Chris Pronger setup Jeff Carter on the power play for a 1-0 lead. Halfway through the period the Orange and Black capitalized on another power play with Claude Giroux and Matt Carle setting up Danny Briere for a 2-0 lead. Finally a minute after that Carolina got on the board, but that would be all they would get as Boucher closed things down from there and cemented the 2-1 win.
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers looked to continue their winning ways tonight as they returned home for a matchup with Dwight Howard and the Magic. Despite playing on back to back nights the Sixers gave Orlando all they could handle and then some. Defensively, they held trey loving Magic under 40% from beyond and actually out rebounded Orlando 45-40. They also did a good job keeping most of the Magic to less then their best, except Howard who went off for 30 and 17 rebounds and that proved to be the difference. The Sixers themselves didn't quite do enough offensively and that too was a factor. They shot only 42% from the field with Lou Williams 23 leading the way. Andre Iguodala was also big with 21 and 8 assists, Elton Brand chipped in with 12, and Jodie Meeks had 17, but no other Sixer had more than 7 points.
Despite not shooting their best most of the night the Sixers actually did come out strong early on, taking a 9 point lead through 1 quarter. Orlando rallied back in the 2nd quarter as the Sixers cooled off and by the half it was a 2 point Orlando advantage. The Sixers were never able to find their top form again for the remainder of the night, but they did not give up. Defense and scrappy allowed them to stick within 5 heading into the 4th quarter. There in the 4th they continually found a way to stay within a basket or two. They were never able to get over the hump though, and eventually after sinking some free throws Orlando hung on to win 99-95.
Despite not shooting their best most of the night the Sixers actually did come out strong early on, taking a 9 point lead through 1 quarter. Orlando rallied back in the 2nd quarter as the Sixers cooled off and by the half it was a 2 point Orlando advantage. The Sixers were never able to find their top form again for the remainder of the night, but they did not give up. Defense and scrappy allowed them to stick within 5 heading into the 4th quarter. There in the 4th they continually found a way to stay within a basket or two. They were never able to get over the hump though, and eventually after sinking some free throws Orlando hung on to win 99-95.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
After failing to complete weekend sweep of the New York the Sixes looked to get back to their winning ways tonight in Atlanta against the Hawks and boy did they. Atlanta never knew what hit them. While it's true that the Hawks were without Al Horford, I don't know that they would even have had a chance to win if they did have him. The Sixers were just too good on both sides of the ball. Defensively, they held Atlanta to just 40% shooting from field and 16% from beyond, while racking up 9 steals and 5 blocks and commanding the boards 50-35. Offensively, the Sixers rode hot shooting all night, at 54% from field. Lou Williams 20 off the bench led 6 Sixers in double figures. Elton Brand also had 17, Jodie Meeks and Thad Young each had 16, Jrue Holiday had 15, and Andre Iguodala had 11.
Right from the beginning it was all Sixers all the time. At the end of the 1st quarter they were already up by 18. By the half time the lead was already an insurmountable 32. Atlanta finally woke up a bit in the 3rd quiarter and made some inroads but it was too late. Despite Atlanta's best efforts, the Sixers still led by 30 heading into the 4th quarter. There the Sixers did not rest on their laurels, instead extending their lead by 4, before roling to a 34 point win, 117-83. Not bad huh.
Right from the beginning it was all Sixers all the time. At the end of the 1st quarter they were already up by 18. By the half time the lead was already an insurmountable 32. Atlanta finally woke up a bit in the 3rd quiarter and made some inroads but it was too late. Despite Atlanta's best efforts, the Sixers still led by 30 heading into the 4th quarter. There the Sixers did not rest on their laurels, instead extending their lead by 4, before roling to a 34 point win, 117-83. Not bad huh.
Monday, February 07, 2011
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles have promoted Micheal Zordich and Mike Caldwell to secondary and linebackers coach respectively. With those promotions and Juan Castillo's promotion to defensive coordinator, the Eagles have now filled all of their major defensive coaching openings.
Sunday, February 06, 2011
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers completed the 2nd half of a home and home series with Knicks this afternoon in the Garden. After toughing out a win in the first half at the Wells Fargo center they were going to have come out with a different type of energy if they wanted sweep the series. Unfortunately they just never quite found the energy they needed in this one, at least not on defense anyway. Amare Stoudamire was just unstoppable with 41 points on 17 of 21 shooting and the Sixers probably would have been best served just to let him do his thing and guard the perimeter. Instead they tried to cool him down and guard the perimeter at the same time and it didn't work. All too often Knicks were left open from beyond while Amare was doubled and tripled and they took full advantage, especially the rookie Landry Fields, who nailed 5 of 7 from beyond to quell all Sixer comeback attempts.
For their part the Sixers did plenty of scoring as well, with Elton Brand's 28 and 5 rebounds leading the way. Andre Iguodala also chipped in with 14, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, while Thad Young 16 and Lou Williams had 19, both off the bench. Ultimately though, it doesn't matter how many points you score if you can't stop the other guy. Early on the Sixers were at least able to keep things tight. New York rode Amare to a 7 point lead after a quarter of play but the Sixers managed a few defensive stops in the 2nd quarter, and rallied back to within 4 at the half. In the 3rd quarter New York again rode Amare and now Landry to an extended lead, this time by as many as 11, but it wasn't enough to shake the Sixers. Again the Sixers figured out a way to turn it up a notch on defense and it was to close the gap all the way to 3 at one point before settling for a 6 point deficit heading into the 4th quarter. This time Amare and Landry were too much, as despite the Sixer's best efforts the Knicks finally pulled away for good for the 117-103 win.
For their part the Sixers did plenty of scoring as well, with Elton Brand's 28 and 5 rebounds leading the way. Andre Iguodala also chipped in with 14, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, while Thad Young 16 and Lou Williams had 19, both off the bench. Ultimately though, it doesn't matter how many points you score if you can't stop the other guy. Early on the Sixers were at least able to keep things tight. New York rode Amare to a 7 point lead after a quarter of play but the Sixers managed a few defensive stops in the 2nd quarter, and rallied back to within 4 at the half. In the 3rd quarter New York again rode Amare and now Landry to an extended lead, this time by as many as 11, but it wasn't enough to shake the Sixers. Again the Sixers figured out a way to turn it up a notch on defense and it was to close the gap all the way to 3 at one point before settling for a 6 point deficit heading into the 4th quarter. This time Amare and Landry were too much, as despite the Sixer's best efforts the Knicks finally pulled away for good for the 117-103 win.
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