Rangers take commanding 3-1 series lead in overtime thriller

The Rangers showed true grit and determinationin their 2-1 comeback overtime win against the Penguins Wednesday night.

After battling back from an early deficit, a physical game that pitted two evenly matched teams was a true playoff battle. The contest went to an extra frame before Kevin Hayes was able to poke a loose puck into the net three minutes and 14 seconds into OT.

Credited on the game-winner with assists were Carl Hagelin, Martin St. Louis, leaders who helped the Rangers silence the ferocious opposing crowd.

The Penguins first snatched the momentum early (on the second shot of the game) as Patrick Hornqvist smacked in a goal just over two minutes into play, letting loose an eruption from the Pittsburgh crowd, desperate to get back into the series.

The Rangers tied things at one after a crazy bounce squeaked by Marc Andre-Fleury. The ‘dirty’ goal would be attributed to Derick Brassard.

Brassard has a ridiculous 21 points (12 goals, nine assists) in 21 regular season and playoff games against the Penguins as a Ranger.

There were several spars throughout the competitive game, though no one lost their wits to start a costly full-blown brawl (which would have cost either team bitterly in the playoffs).

The Penguins had a handful of worthwhile opportunities as the clock waned in regulation but they were unable to find nylon, sending the game to an extra frame stuck at one-goal apiece.

The two teams will tango at Madison Square Garden Friday night at 7 (MSG). The Rangers are one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Semis.