BLACKHAWKS LOSE HEARTBREAKER TO WINGS

 

The Blackhawks' difficult start to the 1994 season continued on Thursday with their third clash in seven games with the powerhouse Red Wings. Detroit had won the first two matchups by a combined score of 13-6 and were looking to clinch a season series in only 10 nights of NFHL games. Chicago gave a much better effort in this one but still fell short by a score of 5-4.

 

It could be argued that the first period was won by the Blackhawks. Sure, they gave up the first goal of the game to Carey Wilson,  but the team settled in after that, outshooting the Wings 11-8 in total and scoring two goals of their own. Rich Pilon and Bill Guerin supplied the offense for Chicago before John Chabot evened things up just before intermission. 

 

Detroit scored back to back goals to take a 4-2 lead in the 2nd period. Petr Klima put his team ahead with a beautiful shot from the top of the circle and Wayne Babych knocked in a rebound for his 3rd point of the night. Both Red Wings goals were scored with the man advantage.

 

Chicago deserves some credit as they didn't quit in the 3rd period. Bill Guerin broke free while killing a Frank Musil penalty to get his 3rd goal of the season. Two and half minutes later, Luke Richardson fired home his 1st of the year. The building was electric during these nervous moments for Detroit, but the Hawks weren't able to grab the lead away in time. Chabot found himself open with just over five minutes to play to bury his 2nd of the night, which held up as the game winner.

 

With the loss the Blackhawks fall to 1-6 on the season. They get a chance to make amends Friday night at home vs. Boston. We expect Arturs Irbe to get the start in goal after his dominance over the Bruins in 1993.

 

ESPN Radio Chicago