The Phantoms continue to charge towards the playoffs with a relentless style which should serve them well when they get there. Here’s what you need to know about tonight’s game versus Hartford:
It’s About Not Giving Up
Since losing out on a Friday-Sunday weekend March 17-19 to PA rivals Hershey and Wilkes-Barre, the Phantoms have managed the 2 points that winners get in the last three games. In each case, they trailed headed to the third period.
Last night against the hated Penguins the Hamilton Street Heroes were playing some good hockey but suffering some bad luck and a referee crew who had it out for Garrett Wilson and wanted to make sure the hated Penguins got a chance to have a 5-on-3 opportunity. Former Penguin Jordy Bellerive and youngster Bobby Brink were able to tie and take the lead in the third to go along with some excellent defense. Brinker added an empty net as well, for a two-goal game.
Roster Settling In
Philadelphia is going to have needs, even in their woeful state (they’ve actually been playing some good hockey lately). So after starting last night Ersson returns to the NHL club as they have the Sabers coming in tonight. Nagle is back in the fold for us, from Reading. Foerster and Zamula are here. We’ve got a pretty good idea what the playoff roster will look like. Health might be an issue, as I’d strongly prefer a healthy Cooper Marody in the lineup.
Standings Check
Hershey and Providence are the teams who have punched their tickets to the post-season; they remain at the top of the standings. Springfield and Charlotte are now tied for third with Springfield having the tie-break advantage. The Phantoms are in fifth and would need to climb 3 standings points to catch either of the previous two teams and gain a home-ice playoff advantage. Hartford, tonight’s opponent, has climbed out of the cellar and into the sixth and final playoff spot. They are three point ahead of Bridgeport on the back of 6-3-1 in the last ten including a 3-0 streak.
GAME DAY!
Hartford will be no easy task tonight, especially without Ersson. But as we said, this Phantoms team has been playing some good solid hockey so we will see.
As we mentioned previously the parking overlords have come under some political pressure from the city, and have been on their best behavior lately, from what I’ve seen. The new “Maple Street” deck continues to be a good choice.
Many good seats still remain for tonight’s game. On the secondary market for as low as $9 for a single in the second level.
Saturday Night Hockey Live tonight with second-intermission entertainment on tap.
OFFICIALS
Referee Graedy Hamilton (#91)
Referee Rob Hennessey (#87)
Linesperson Richard Jondo (#55)
Linesperson Jud Ritter (#34)
MEDIA KIT
What To Watch
- Watch to see if the defense can keep the pucks off whomever is in net tonight. They’ve been able to do that before, giving Maier some favorable evenings.
- Watch D Emil Andrae wearing #6. He’s new in town from Sweden, and was the second round pick in 2020 by the Flyers. I think he’s playing bigger than his size and looks really smooth with the puck on his stick. His skating looks really good as well. What do you think?
- Watch to see if the Phantoms can get an early lead for a change. That might be easier than a come-from-behind scenario for a fourth straight game.
Up Next
The Phantoms complete their 3/3 tomorrow afternoon in Bridgeport versus the desperate sound islanders who are trying to get back into the playoff conversation. Charlotte and Springfield at home next Friday and Saturday respectively.
See you at the arena,
@Kram207