Panthers Hold Off Bruins in OT Thriller
Luostarinen's Late Goal Proves to Be Decisive
Verhaeghe's Overtime Winner Seals Victory for Florida
The Florida Panthers outlasted the Boston Bruins in a thrilling overtime battle on Tuesday night, taking a 4-3 decision at TD Garden. Matthew Tkachuk and Eetu Luostarinen each scored twice for the Panthers, while Carter Verhaeghe netted the game-winning goal in overtime.
The Bruins controlled much of the play in the first period, outshooting the Panthers 12-6. However, it was Florida who struck first when Tkachuk scored a power-play goal midway through the frame. Boston responded quickly, though, as Brad Marchand tied the game just two minutes later.
The second period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading chances. Luostarinen gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead with a goal at the 8:30 mark, but the Bruins again tied the game when David Pastrnak scored on a breakaway just three minutes later.
The third period was just as tight, with both teams having chances to win the game. Tkachuk gave the Panthers a 3-2 lead with a goal at the 12:30 mark, but the Bruins once again tied the game when Brandon Montour scored with just over a minute remaining in regulation.
The game went to overtime, and it was Verhaeghe who played the hero for the Panthers. He scored the game-winning goal just 1:38 into the extra period, giving Florida the two points.
The Panthers are now 3-1-0 on the season, while the Bruins fall to 1-2-1. Florida will be back in action on Thursday night when they host the New Jersey Devils, while Boston will try to get back on track on Wednesday night when they visit the Ottawa Senators.
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