Narrow 3-2 Loss For Blue Jackets Vs. Penguins Stirs Mixed Emotions

It's the 100th goal for Bjorkstrand's Columbus Blue Jackets career!  It's a great game, regardless, when said opens with such a monumental goal.  This goal came at 4:43, and the assists went to Roslovic and Voracek.  The penguins would tie it though as Elvis just couldn't get back up in time, from a save, and the rebound from Ruthwedel went in.  Goal time was 19:11.  This first period would end like this, 1-1 tie. Period 2 would only have 1 goal, a Blue Jackets goal, from Roslovic.  It was unassisted at 8:39.  The Blue Jackets would hold for a 2-1 tie after 2 periods.  Unfortunately, at 8:06 Malkin would score for the Penguins, making it a 2-2 tie, again.   

In Period 3 there was a goal scored, by the Penguins. This goal came at 17:46, by Crosby.  Brad Larson issued a challenge, but the goal was upheld.  The refs stated that Merzlikins created contact with the Penguins player, when he reached out with what I believed to be his gloved, right hand.  When this tangle happened the goal was empty, unattended, and as such the goal was so easy I assure you I could've made that score.  It is what it is, and it isn't something I completely agree with.  However, I'm going to take a page out of the players book tonight.  This call and game are already in the past.  Further, I must complement all of our guys who took part in the media postgame interviews.  Although I'm sure their upset with this call, they were respectful and wise with their words, despite the many media questions asked about said call, and questioning if the refs are unfavorable to the Columbus NHL team.  I'm very impressed with the mature players we have, and the fact I write for them.  It's time to skate on and focus on March 1st, which is both the Devils and "Hockey is For Everyone Night" at Nationwide Arena.  

Speaking of, that game on March 1st is set for a 7:00 PM EST puck drop.  Remember, this is the "Hockey is For Everyone Night", and Max Domi is the ambassador for the night's events.  So, it will be a special night all around.  Unless there are updates tomorrow, or comments from the NHL regarding the final goal tonight, we'll talk Tuesday 5th Line.   

Go CBJ!           



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