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During the first period, Carolina outshot Pittsburgh 12-9 but it felt more like the Pens were dominating.  With goals from Miroslav Satan (fresh out of the penalty box) and Evgeni Malkin, those first twenty minutes really seemed to be in Pittsburgh’s favor.

In the second period, the Hurricanes were outshot 6-12 but they seemed to be more in control.  They were putting a lot of pressure on goalie, Marc-Andre Fleury, who had to come up with some amazing saves but, finally, let a shot by Chad Larose slip behind him.

In the third, both teams put in a huge effort but the goal by Philippe Boucher (Pittsburgh) remained the game-winner, although Joe Corvo scored on a power play for Carolina with just more than a minute and half left in the game.

The Hurricanes seemed to be in an absolute frenzy in the final moments and, despite a very close call, they just couldn’t tie up the game.  As has been the case throughout the postseason, Carolina continues to surprise and put forth an effort that is reminiscent of that in 2006 when they took home Lord Stanley.  I would love for the Penguins to move on to the next round but I wouldn’t be shocked at all if they didn’t make it.

Post from: Hockey Beat