Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals was more difficult for the Chicago Blackhawks than it needed to be. They took a 6-5 decision from the Philadelphia Flyers, but likely should have won by much more.
At many times in the first two periods, Chicago seemed ready to take control of the game, to grab momentum from Philly and not let go. They scored their goals and looked about to shut down any further Flyers attack.
Those were the points in the game when Chicago took a penalty. Off their player would go to the box and the Flyers got two minutes of free puck possession to re-establish themselves.
It happened in the first period. Dave Bolland rushed in on a short-handed breakaway, scored to put the 'Hawks up 2-1 and the crowd went wild. Not four minutes later, Brian Campbell took a high-sticking penalty. Philadelphia scored on that power play and again before the period was out. Flyers 3-2.
It happened again in the second period. Patrick Sharp scored an early goal that tied the game only to have Adam Burish take a dumb boarding penalty a few minutes later. Though they didn't score on that power play, Philly got a goal roughly 30 seconds after it ended for a 4-3 lead.
Chicago had to work hard just to stay in the game for those first 40 minutes.
Now look at the last 20. The Blackhawks controlled the run of play, allowed just six shots from the Flyers and scored the only goal of the period. 6-5 final.
How many penalties did Chicago in that last period? None.
The 'Hawks will have to stay disciplined if they want to win Game 2. Otherwise they run a real risk of going back to Philly tied at a game a piece.
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