The fans in Pittsburgh can breath a sigh of relief, the Pittsburgh Penguins have not only won the first playoff game in franchise history, they have won their first ever series as well. Olaf Kolzig was the star of the series, standing on his head making 38 saves in the win. Jason Spezza who was reunited on a line with Martin Straka scored 2 second period goals one set up by Straka, to give the Pens the 2-1 lead heading into the 3rd frame, although being outshot 28-15. The Canes continued to press the Pens outshooting them 12-5 in the final frame, and tieing the contest 2-2 when Mccauley scored at the 9:45 mark. Sami Kapenen proved to be a worthy deadline pickup as he blasted a onetimer from the point past a screen Craig Anderson; who played solid in place of an injured David Aebischer; at the 17:08 mark of the final frame giving the Pens the series win.
Kolzig was estatic after the game:
"We knew it was gonna be a battle right to the end, and I am just happy to help my team win. We felt we had a team that could go far this year and we hope to build off this win and carry momentum into round 2."
Spezza was also very pleased:
"We have a great bunch of guys in this room who work hard game in and game out. I am very glad to be a part of this team and I only hope this run can continue."
GM Goffie added:
"Hats off to the Canes on a great series, it went down to the wire as I expected it too, and I gotta give it too Doug credit cause he really understands the sim and player chemistry and he knows how to get the most out of all his players. The Canes were a top team in the CPHL all year. Looking forward to doing battle with the Canes again next year"
