Capitals Vs Rangers 04/26/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 6 Review

Tom Poti celebrates goal with David Steckel on April 26, 2009.
Photo by Getty Images

Capitals 5 - Rangers 3

The Eastern Conference Quarterfinal Playoff series between the Washington Capitals and the New York Rangers was evened up 3-3 yesterday, when the Capitals beat the Rangers in New York, after having been down by three games to one.

The Rangers' temporary bench boss was Assistant GM and interim coach Jim Schoenfeld. Schoenfeld took over the position for this game while Head Coach John Tortorella had a seat upstairs. Tortorella had been suspended for one game for throwing a water bottle at an unruly spectater in Washington at Game 5. The decision to suspend Torts was followed up by Rangers GM Glen Sather asking NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman to punish the Capitals for what he thought was a lack of action by their security personnel. His request, which was full of fantasy about how well behaved the fans are in their arena, is just another desperate move by an organization that will stop at nothing to gain any advantage they can.

As far as the game itself, it was another display of the Capitals superiority over the Rangers. Simeon Varlamov didn't have to make very many spectacular saves in net for the Caps, but he was good when he needed to be. Washington's first three goals were all scored by defensemen. Milan Jurcina was first to light the lamp, putting the puck past goalie Henrik Lundqvist at 7:09 in the first period. Matt Bradley had blocked a clearing attempt and the puck ended up with David Steckel. Steckel's centering pass reached Brooks Laich, who dished it to Jurcina for the well screened shot. Uncharacteristically for the Rangers, they answered back with a power play goal by Scott Gomez about a minute later. The next power play opportunity belonged to the Capitals, and Mike Green banged in a rebound off of an Alexander Semin shot that was set up by defenseman Tom Poti. A few minutes later, Poti just got out of the penalty box for a puck over the glass delay of game call, when he found himself joining David Steckel and Boyd Gordon for a three on one odd man rush going into New York's end. It was a beautiful play that ended with Poti tipping in a cross ice pass from Steckel.

Halfway through the second period, Poti was involved in another Washington goal. Sergei Fedorov got the puck to Poti from behind the Caps net, and he sent an outlet pass to Viktor Kozlov. Kozlov skated the puck the rest of the way and ended up following the puck into the Rangers' net after his game winning shot. Poti would also be a part of a power play goal by Alex Ovechkin at 16:44. Nicklas Backstrom had control of the puck high in the slot. Under pressure, he sent it back to Poti at the point. Ovechkin purposefully deflected in Poti's slap shot.

As in Game 5, Steven Valiquette replaced Lundqvist to start the third period. At least one of the Rangers' two goals in the third shouldn't have happened, but they didn't change the outcome of the game anyway. After a couple really weak calls that sent defenseman John Erskine to the penalty box for holding and Backstrom for hooking, the Rangers scored their second goal during the 5 on 3. Shortly after getting back to even strength from a couple more bad calls, New York got their final meaningless goal just before time ran out.

Just as they did last season, Washington has come from seeming to be hopelessly behind in the series, to forcing a Game 7. Their talent and relentless determination has gotten them far, and should carry them past the Rangers in the final game of the series.

Capitals Vs Rangers 04/22/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 4 Review

Capitals players watch final minute of Game 4 from bench April 22, 2009.
Photo by Julie Jacobson / AP Photo.

Capitals 1 - Rangers 2

After seeming to have learned some important lessons in the first two games in round one of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Washington Capitals appeared to have lost their notes before last night's disappointing loss to the New York Rangers in Game 4.

If you watched the game, you know that both of New York's goals came with the help of a few incredibly lucky bounces. The game winner, scored by the essentially one handed (injured) Chris Drury, came about when Caps' netminder Simeon Varlamov had trouble closing his glove on the puck and eventually dropped it (Would have been a good time for one of those quick whistles, ref!). The puck bounced to Drury, who got another fortunate bounce off of Varlamov, on a shot from an almost impossible angle. The game could have turned out very differently if some of those pipe ringing shots by Washington had been the teensiest bit more accurate, or gotten some of those lucky bounces. However, leaving the what ifs behind and concentrating on the controllable things the Caps did and didn't do, shows where they went wrong.

They didn't win nearly as many of the faceoffs as they had been (Caps 33% - Rangers 67%). Some of them didn't refrain from using too many cutesy little moves instead of keeping it simple as in the previous game, which they won. Washington finally started putting a lot of traffic in front of Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist during that win, but there was almost never more than one guy anywhere near the opponent's net in last night's contest. They had a couple less giveaways (Caps 5 - Rangers 7) than New York , but they also had fewer takeaways (Caps 8 - Rangers 12).

Perhaps one of the biggest questions fans are asking is ... "What the hell is wrong with Mike Green ?". He had two assists in Game 1, but has faded into the background since then. He was on the ice for 29:52 last night, more than any other Washington Capital, but only managed two hits. Green just isn't playing like he did for most of the regular season, a level of play which earned him a spot as finalist for the Norris Memorial Trophy as the league's top defenseman.

Lundqvist has been goaltending as well as he ever has, and that's freakin' great. But if Washington keeps firing tons of shots at him, some more are going to start to go in. They've got to keep the pressure on him as much as possible. To do that, they'll have to get through New York's defense, which has been great, but not unbeatable.

With the loss, the Capitals find themselves in the same spot they were in last year, down three games to one. If they were able to force a Game 7 against the Philadelphia Flyers in that series, surely they can do the same against the inferior New York Rangers in this one. They will have to win three straight to make it to the next round. To do that, they are going to have to get much more physical and start converting on their scoring chances. Alex Ovechkin scored the Caps only goal in this game, his first of this series, and that's a very good sign. He'll likely get on a hot streak now, but he's going to need some help.

Rangers Vs Capitals 04/28/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 7 Review

Sergei Fedorov celebrates winning goal with Alex Ovechkin and Viktor Kozlov.
April 28, 2009 photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP Photo.

Rangers 1 - Capitals 2

The Washington Capitals advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 1998, when they defeated the New York Rangers in Game 7 at home Tuesday night, April 28, 2009.

The Rangers, as expected, came out full of determination and played at their top level. The Capitals started off the game a lot weaker than their fans would ever want to see in a Game 7. New York's goalie Henrik Lundqvist was as sharp as ever and Washington's netminder Simeon Varlamov was just as good. It was Varlamov who was tested early, due to the sheepish play by most of the Capitals for the first several minutes.

The visitors scored the first goal at 5:35 in the first period. Alex Ovechkin was joined by defenseman John Erskine in clearing forward Brandon Dubinsky from the front of the Caps' net while Varlamov made a stick save on his shot, leaving a hole for the snap shot of Nik Antropov to find it's way into the net. The fact that the home team wins a Game 7 about 63% of the time was little comfort to the hometown fans who also remembered that the team that had scored first has won every game but the first of this series. About ten minutes later, worried fans got some relief when Washington's Alexander Semin evened up the score. Just out of the penalty box, Mike Green joined Semin and Nicklas Backstrom for a 3 on 2 odd man rush. Backstrom left a drop pass to Semin as they neared the goal. Semin's shot deflected off the stick of Ryan Callahan and fluttered into the far side of the cage.

Neither team scored in the second period. The Rangers continued to play strong, but there was also some improvement by the Capitals. Some nervous (and classless) fans with higher expectations, due to the accomplishments of the team over the past two seasons, booed their team anyway.

The team leaders, it has been reported, spoke a few words of probably both warning and encouragement before the start of the third period. That seemed to help an awful lot, and Washington came alive when they got back to the ice. Fans also added fuel to the fire by cheering on the team the rest of the way. From the reactions of the players, that made as big a difference as anything. The Capitals kept up the pressure on the Rangers, while New York seemed to be running out of gas. With about five minutes left in the game, 39 year old Sergei Fedorov scored the playoff game winning (12th of his career) and playoff series winning goal. Matt Bradley fed Feds from the sidewall in the Caps end. Fedorov skated up the ice and fired the puck in top shelf, giving him point number 172 in his 176th playoff game.

The first round playoff series between the Capitals and the Rangers probably shouldn't have taken seven games to decide, but we're not going to hang our heads down now, are we? Some important lessons have been taught by the older, more experienced players and learned by the younger players. All of Washington's players know more about what they are capable of, as a team and as far as individuals. The players, coaches and the entire organization has made us Washington Capitals fans very proud.

Rangers Vs Capitals 04/24/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 5 Review

Matt Bradley scores first goal of Game 5 on April 24, 2009.
Photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP Photo.

Rangers 0 - Capitals 4

The Washington Capitals extended their first round playoff series to at least a Game 6 by shutting out the New York Rangers 4-0 for the second time in the post season. The Rangers played hard, but the Capitals were at least a little better in every category.

Forward Matt Bradley scored the first goal of the game with the very first shot on goal, while the Caps were killing off their first penalty. It was only the second shorthanded goal in all of the 2009 Quarterfinals so far, and Bradley's first ever NHL level playoff goal. The primary assist came from Boyd Gordon, who cleared the puck from behind the Caps' net, sending it along the boards. Bradley collected the puck just inside the offensive zone, drove straight through the slot and slid it past goalie Henrik Lundqvist. Just 7:09 later and still in the first period, Bradley got his second goal of the game with a severe angle shot from the sidewall, near the goal line.

The other two goals came from Alexander Semin and Alex Ovechkin during the second period. Ovechkin's goal was another highlight reel spectacle, scored 29 seconds before the end of the period. He grabbed the puck at the Caps' blueline and skated it all the way up ice. After entering the Rangers' end, he plowed through New York forward Chris Drury as he went across the ice, slid the puck between the legs of defenseman Derek Morris and then headed right down the middle. He sent a backhander to the net as he fell to the ice, and Aaron Voros rode piggy back as Ovie slid to the end wall.

There were a lot of penalties called in this very physical game, with 11 of the 19 committed by the Rangers. That's not the best game plan fellas. There were a few more that could have been called, but this game probably was officiated a little bit better than in the previous contests. I would like to know why it always seems like the referees end up holding on to Washingtons' players at the end of fights, while the other guys get a few more punches in. Thankfully, we've got seriously tough guys like John Erskine and Donald Brashear, who can take some sucker punches. Our enforcers can also play hockey pretty well too, unlike New York's thug only Colton Orr.

If you're a Capitals fan, it's a time to be proud of your team. They did just about everything right, including chasing Henrik Lundqvist from between the pipes, by scoring four goals within their first 14 shots on net in the first two periods. He was replaced by Steven Valiquette at the start of the third. Valiqutte didn't give up any goals on the measly seven shots that made it to the net, but New York never got anything past Simeon Varlamov through all 60 minutes, earning him his second shutout of the series. Former Washington goalie Olie Kolzig is the only other Capital to have earned more than one shutout (4 in 1998) during a playoff series. The Caps also blocked 21 shots in this game, while the Rangers only blocked 11.

The Capitals will now head back to New York for Game 6 on Sunday afternoon. They must win that game to get a Game 7 back in Washington, DC. They must win both games to advance to the next round and avoid elimination.

Rangers Vs Capitals 04/18/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 2 Review

Matt Bradley attempts to score a goal in Game 2 on April 18, 2009.
Photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP Photo.

Rangers 1 - Capitals 0

The Washington Capitals lost their second straight game, in round one of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Heavily outshooting the New York Rangers, as in Game 1, was not enough to get a win.

After suffering a 4-3 loss in the post season opener, which included a less than stellar performance in net by veteran goalie Jose Theodore, the Caps' Head Coach Bruce Boudreau went with rookie Simeon Varlamov in this afternoon's match. It's only the fourth time in the team's history, that they put a rookie in goal to start a playoff game.

Varlamov only played in six games at the NHL level during the 2008-2009 regular season, but he had done very well, with a 4-0-1 record. This 20 year old kid also did fairly well last year in the Russian Super League, falling just short of winning the title. He didn't face the number of shots that Henrik Lundqvist did while guarding the Rangers net, but he was very sharp throughout today's entire game. Only one of those shots got past him. Unfortunately, that was all it would take to lose this one.

So, what went wrong? Not that many things, really. But the things that did go wrong for the Capitals, were bad enough to lose them the game. They committed three times as many turnovers as the Rangers for a start. Even though they fired off more than 80 shots, 35 of which went on goal, 29 were blocked. Alex Ovechkin came closest to scoring, when the puck hit the cross bar of the goal on one of his shots in period three. The rest didn't get anywhere close to the goal. Far too many were launched from the perimeter. Washington had plenty of scoring chances, but if they can't get close enough to Lundqvist, those chances won't be of the right quality level.

Thankfully, the Caps are good at making comebacks these days. As a matter of fact, after falling behind in the first round last year, they ended up taking it to a Game 7. Washington lost that one in overtime. I'm sure that the memories of how that series played out and being two games down this time are going to be strong motivators, when they play Game 3 at Madison Square Garden in New York on Monday night.

Capitals Vs Rangers 04/20/2009 EC Quarterfinal Game 3 Review

Simeon Varlamov closes off goal mouth April 20, 2009.
Photo by Bruce Bennett / Getty Images.

Capitals 4 - Rangers 0

The Washington Capitals turned things around in Game 3 of the Quarterfinals versus the New York Rangers. Down two games to none, they broke through the barriers to score four goals on netminder Henrik Lundqvist. Meanwhile, goalie Simeon Varlamov and the Caps held the Rangers scoreless.

Washington had done many things right in their two playoff loses, but they improved on the aspects that were lacking. The forwards drove to the net, with all four goals shot from close range (Alex Semin - 2 Goals, Brooks Laich - 1 PPG, Tom Poti - 1 PPG). Nicklas Backstom was brilliant in every facet, including two perfect passes that led to goals. The defensemen kept the level of traffic in front of the Capitals net under control. Forward Alex Ovechkin still hasn't scored a goal in the series, but he's lent a hand to defense by clearing some of that traffic himself, among other things. Washington players worked as a team in this one, and kept to simple play. They also only had one giveaway, after having been very genorous in that area the previous two games.

Goaltending is one of the areas that didn't need improvement, at least not since the second game. Simeon Varlamov who only allowed one goal in Game 2, the first in which he played, continued to breathe hope into the hearts of Caps fans. Since that one goal, Varlamov has stopped 55 consecutive shots on goal through over 112 minutes of play. He became only the fourth NHL goalie in history to shutout an opponent in the playoffs before the age of 21.

The future, both near and far off, looks very bright for this team. I'm confident they will go far in the playoffs this year and many years to come.

The Rangers Should "Expect No Mercy"!

Matt Bradley celebrates Game 5 goal at Capitals bench.
April 24, 2009 photo by Getty Images.

There's been a lot of useless and unwarranted drama on and off the ice during the first round of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Especially in the series between the Southeast Division Champion Washington Capitals and the New York Rangers.

The Rangers, who just barely made it into the playoffs, have tried all sorts of mind games, dirty tricks and misleading accusations to distract the much more well equiped Capitals from focusing on their goal.

Sure, they may have a right to be unhappy about a couple things that have happened, even though they've gotten away with so much more. For the Capitals, all those things need to take a back seat to the main event. Game 7 of the series takes place at Verizon Center in Washington, DC tonight. However mistreated the Rangers may feel, they should "Expect No Mercy"!

Nazareth - "Expect No Mercy"

Rangers Vs Capitals 01/03/2009 Review

Alexander Semin heads off after fight with Marc Staal.
Photo from NewYorkRangers.com

Rangers 1 - Capitals 2

The Washington Capitals won their sixth straight game for the first time this season, in this mostly defensive match. The New York Rangers were their latest victim last night, in a game that started off uneventful, but built up momentum as it went along.

There's wasn't much to gloat about as far as the first period was concerned. You could've waited to tune in until the second period, and you wouldn't have missed much. The stats were very even, except in the hits department. The Capitals apparently temporarily forgot that hockey is a contact sport.

Mike Green scores goal on Steve Valiquette.
Photo by Luis M. Alvarez / Associated Press.

Washington's memory cleared up in the second period, and they started forechecking and putting some energy into the game at both ends. It was the Rangers who scored first however, as Petr Prucha deflected a shot past goalie Jose Theodore half way through the period. Theodore was in good form once again though, and didn't allow another puck to find it's way into the net from then on. Less than a minute and a half later, the Capitals answered back while on a power play. From the point, Viktor Kozlov sent the puck to Alexander Semin (just back from injury) at the goal line to the left of the net. Mike Green mosied in toward the net guarded by netminder Steve Valiquette on the right side and banged in a quick pass from Semin.

The physicality of the game increased throughout the second period. But as time was running out, it became clear that Alex Ovechkin couldn't be stopped. He was determined to score and put Washington ahead. With just 31.4 seconds left and the Caps down a man, he did just that. David Steckel hit Ovechkin in the neutral zone with a short outlet pass. Alex turned on the jets and sped his way into the Rangers' end. His only obstacle, Wade Redden was frozen by a pump fake. Ovie got his shot off as he passed Redden, and the puck sailed by Valiquette for the shorthanded game winning goal.

Kettle Drum played in USAF European Band.
April 4, 2005 Photo by USAF.

Neither team scored in the third period, but the entertainment level did not wane by any means. Washington's gritty forward Chis Clark had gotten into a fight with Wade Redden in the first half of the second period. Later in the second, Scott Gomez had sucker punched Michael Nylander. But the fight we'll be talking about (and laughing about) until the end of time, happened early in the third. Marc Staal was probably trying to fire up his team, when he picked a fight with Alexander Semin. Staal was probably very surprised when Semin easily got the best of him. More than 18,000 fans cheered as Staal went down on the ice, and then roared with laughter as Semin beat him like a girl kettle drum. Many others have described the instrument of Semin's pugilistic music as bongos, but clearly it was the kettle drum. The Capitals were able to hold their composure and hang on to their lead for the win.

The game was played in front of yet another sold out crowd, which I've heard gives Washington more sellouts for this season than in the entire previous season. More importantly, the Caps have gone 12-1-2 in their last 15 games. In fact, their record for the season so far is 26-11-3, which is the best ever after the first 40 games in the team's entire history. Now, that should keep the smile on Caps' fans faces for a while.

The Washington Capitals Are Moving On

Sergei Fedorov and the Capitals skate past the Rangers to the semifinals.
April 28, 2009 photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP Photo.

The Washington Capitals won their first round of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, when they defeated the New York Rangers in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series.

Everybody knows about the offensive power of the Capitals, and although the Rangers are not known as particularly offensively gifted, Washington held them to fewer shots on average than any other team in the first round. The Caps also got great goaltending out of their young NHL rookie Simeon Varlamov, who earned two shutouts during the series.

So, we know the team is ready. For the first time since 1998, the Washington Capitals are "Moving On" the Eastern Conference Semifinals. They will be facing the Pittburgh Penguins. Here's the schedule for the semifinals.

Triumph - "Moving On"

Junior's Reading And Viewing List: November 21 - 30, 2011

Last Update - January 2, 2011 at 2:24 AM EST

Publications from the end of November 2011 are in Junior's 'Reading And Viewing List' for November 21 through November 30, 2011.

Here are your film, television, music, Washington Capitals hockey, Formula One racing and WRC rally news links.


November 30, 2011

Shada - BBC Book Cover and Details
Posted at Doctor Who Online

...The Doctor's old friend and fellow Time Lord Professor Chronotis has retired to Cambridge University - where nobody will notice if he lives for centuries. But now he needs help from the Doctor, Romana and K-9. When he left Gallifrey he took with him a few little souvenirs - most of them are harmless. But one of them is extremely dangerous...


November 29, 2011

POSTGAME NOTEBOOK: Blues 2, Capitals 1
By Mike Vogel - Senior Writer at WashingtonCaps.com

...On Tuesday, the Caps closed the November portion of their schedule with a 2-1 home ice loss to the St. Louis Blues in the NHL head coaching debut of Dale Hunter. The setback gives the Caps consecutive home ice losses in regulation for the first time in a span of 19 games, since they dropped three in a row at home last February...


Kimi Raikkonen Q&A: I wouldn't be back if I lacked motivation
Posted at Formula1.com

It's official - Kimi Raikkonen will compete again in Formula One racing after the 2007 world champion signed a contract to race with Renault in 2012. In an interview with the team's press office, Raikkonen discusses why he's decided to return to the sport and his preparations for the season ahead...


Kimi: WRC stint was useful
Posted at WRC.com

Kimi Raikkonen, who will return to Formula One after signing a two-year agreement with Lotus Renault GP, has said the two seasons he spent in the World Rally Championship helped him as a driver...


Raikkonen to return with Renault in 2012
Posted at Formula1.com

After weeks of speculation Renault confirmed on Tuesday that Kimi Raikkonen will make a comeback to race for the team in 2012. Raikkonen, who left the sport at the end of 2009 to pursue a rallying career, has signed a two-year agreement with the team...


November 28, 2011

Bleeding Kansas
By Brian Lumley at Rumblings From The Man Cave

...A recent high school field trip to Topeka, Kansas to meet the Jayhawk state's governor has turned a small, seemingly private conversation between a high school girl and her friends into a veritable battle over our sacred cow: The First Amendement of the U.S. Constitution...


Two Coaches, Same End
By The Peerless at The Peerless Prognosticator

...Bruce Boudreau was relieved of his duties as head coach of the Washington Capitals this morning, almost four years to the day since he was named head coach – November 22, 2007. And there is an eerie similarity between his departure and that of his predecessor, Glen Hanlon...


Caps Tab Hunter to Replace Boudreau
By Mike Vogel at Dump 'N Chase

Just over four years ago, the Washington Capitals turned to Bruce Boudreau 21 games into a season that had gotten off to a rocky 6-14-1 start. The Caps hired Boudreau from its AHL Hershey affiliate as the team’s interim head coach on Nov. 22, 2007 to replace Glen Hanlon.

Now, 22 games into the 2011-12 season, the Caps are replacing Boudreau behind the bench with former Caps captain Dale Hunter...


Loeb beats Rossi to Monza glory
Posted at WRC.com

...Loeb’s wife Severine partnered him in his Citroen DS3 WRC for the nine-stage event, based at the Italian Grand Prix venue near Milan from Friday until Sunday...


Latvala stars on French practice rally
Posted at WRC.com

Jari-Matti Latvala continued his strong end-of-season run of form when he drove his Ford Fiesta RS WRC to victory on Rallye du Var, the final round of the French Rally Championship last weekend...


November 27, 2011

People Roundup - The Doctors
Posted by Chuck Foster at Doctor Who News

Tom Baker appeared at the launch of Elisabeth Sladen’s autobiography which took place on Saturday at the Doctor Who Experience in London. Baker said that meeting Sladen changed the direction of his life as it made him so happy in the role of The Doctor that her realised he could play the character for the rest of his life and didn’t need to act any more. He spoke of how they adored each other and how he fondly remembered standing arm in arm with her inside the TARDIS, giggling while they waited for their cue...


November 26, 2011

POSTGAME NOTEBOOK: Sabres 5, Capitals 1
By Mike Vogel - Senior Writer at WashingtonCaps.com

...With nine regulars missing from their lineup and nine rookies suiting up for the Sabres on Saturday, you’d have figured the Capitals might have an advantage in this one, maybe an advantage they could exploit with a fast start against a makeshift and inexperienced Sabres team.

You’d have figured wrong...


Good-bye Barrichello? The Brazilian's past, present and future
Posted at Formula1.com

It's 1993. Bill Clinton has been inaugurated as the 42nd President of the United States. Jurassic Park is the top-grossing film in cinemas. Apartheid is being gradually dismantled in South Africa. The very first internet search engines are being devised. And in Formula One, Williams are dominating with their innovative FW15, whilst young Brazilian hopeful Rubens Barrichello finds his feet at Jordan...


DOCTOR WHO series 7, due autumn 2012
By Dan Owen at Dan's Media Digest

As many people speculated, it looks like Doctor Who won't be back for its seventh series until next autumn. Steven Moffat said as much in the latest edition of Doctor Who Magazine, saying: "Doctor Who in the summer? All that running down tunnels, with torches, and the sunlight streaming through your windows and bleaching out the screen? All those barbecues and children playing outside, while on the telly there are green monsters seething in their CGI-enhanced lairs? It's just not right is it? Be honest...


November 25, 2011

POSTGAME NOTEBOOK: Rangers 6, Capitals 3
By Mike Vogel - Senior Writer at WashingtonCaps.com

Sloppy Second – Washington played well in its own end in the first period of Friday afternoon’s game against the New York Rangers, allowing just five even-strength shots on goal and three while the Rangers held the man-advantage. None of them got past Caps goaltender Michal Neuvirth. The Caps attempted 19 shots on goal to New York’s 18 and the period ended with Washington and New York tied at 0-0...


One Weekend, Two Hollys and a Lister
Posted at Red Dwarf (Official Website)

When sci-fi conventions invite actors from most popular TV series, they'll expect to get the usual mixture of autograph sessions, Q&A panels and photo opportunities. But when they get someone from Red Dwarf, they usually get a lot more into the bargain...


People Roundup
Posted by Chuck Foster at Doctor Who News

...Bill Bailey is under strict instructions not to talk about his role in the Christmas Special: "I will be just about to tell you what happens and then a tranquilliser dart will thud and the phone will go dead. They’ll [the Beeb] be all over me like a rash if I divulge any of the secrets, but yes just to say I have a cameo in it and great fun it is too. It’s fulfilled a lifetime's ambition for me, being a Doctor Who fan." [East Anglian Daily Times, 19 Nov 2011]...


Review: The Lost Stories - [3.02] Hexagora - CD
By Matthew Davis at Doctor Who Online

...Hexagora is chockfull of quite frankly bonkers ideas and set pieces. Yet it has the most wonderful underlying story. However it has to be said that while there is a great deal to enjoy here, not everything about the play works...


Gibson Guitars Announce Photo Exhibition
By mdome at Classic Rock

...It’s called Gibson Through The Lens, and is located at The British Music experience in the O2.

Running until January 31, the exhibition has 60 vintage and rare photos of iconic guitarists with their Gibson or Epiphone models. And entry is free...


November 24, 2011

FIA Thursday press conference - Brazil
Posted at Formula1.com

Drivers - Rubens Barrichello (Williams), Jenson Button (McLaren), Felipe Massa (Ferrari), Daniel Ricciardo (HRT), Michael Schumacher (Mercedes) and Bruno Senna (Renault)...


Review: [154] The Witch From The Well - CD
By Matthew Davis at Doctor Who Online

...The Witch From the Well, the second in the new trilogy of Eighth Doctor adventures, is a rather fun story, filled with great concepts and characters. As you may have guessed from the title, there is no shortage of witch related moments, most significantly in the sequences set in the Seventeenth Century...


November 23, 2011

POSTGAME NOTEBOOK: Capitals 4, Jets 3, OT
By Mike Vogel - Senior Writer at WashingtonCaps.com

Northbound – Monday’s 4-3 win over the Phoenix Coyotes was needed to stem the bleeding for a sagging Capitals team that was 3-7-1 in its previous 11 games and 1-5-1 in its prior seven. But that victory might have rung hollow had the Caps not come back with another strong effort in their next game, Wednesday’s home ice tilt with the Winnipeg Jets...


48th Anniversary of Doctor Who
By Marcus at Doctor Who News

Today marks the 48th Anniversary since the first broadcast of Doctor Who on 23rd November 1963...

...The programme is listed in Guinness World Records as the longest-running science fiction television show in the world, and as the "most successful" science fiction series of all time, in terms of its overall broadcast ratings, DVD and book sales, iTunes traffic, and downloads...

The first appearance of The Doctor

Review: The Lost Stories - [3.01] The Elite - CD
By Matthew Davis at Doctor Who Online

...The Elite is very good indeed. A gripping and intriguing narrative, coupled with exciting all out action, particularly near the story’s conclusion. Everything about this release feels like authentic Peter Davison era Who from the characterization, to the suitably Peter Howell-esque musical score...


GB domination a new WRC record for Ford
Posted at WRC.com

Citroen might have ended the 2011 World Rally Championship season with both the drivers' and manufacturers' titles but Ford rounded out the year by setting a new record when eight of its Fiesta RS WRCs finished inside the top 10...


Dmitry Orlov interview
Posted by tj at Alex Ovetjkin

Dmitry Orlov talked to sports.ru after his first NHL game...


Ogier to Volkswagen
Posted at WRC.com

Sebastien Ogier will be a Volkswagen driver when the German manufacturer makes its World Rally Championship debut in 2013...


Robert Kubica to miss start of 2012 season
Posted at Formula1.com

Robert Kubica has informed Renault that he can't commit to driving for the team from the start of the 2012 as he hasn't yet recovered sufficiently from the injuries he sustained in his February rally accident. Kubica severely injured his right hand during the crash and has missed the whole of the 2011 season...


November 22, 2011

More guests added to Diffcon one
By Martyn at Bad Wilf
Some new names have been added to the guest list of Diffcon. These include:

● Kai Owen
● Andrew Hayden-Smith
● Brian Blessed...


Christopher Eccleston wins an Emmy
By Martyn at Bad Wilf

Christopher Eccleston has won an international Emmy, for his role in Jimmy McGovern’s Accused. The show also won best drama series...


Colin Firth On 'Oldboy' Villain: 'I'm Thinking About It'
Posted by Kevin P. Sullivan at MTV's Splash Page

The last we heard, Colin Firth had been approached to play Adrian, the villain in Spike Lee's upcoming "Oldboy" adaptation.

When MTV News sat down with the Academy Award-winning actor for his new film, "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy", Firth remained more or less mum about potentially taking part in the revenge thriller...

New 'Amazing Spider-Man' Photos Reveal Rhys Ifans' Lizard Hand
By Rachel Molino at MTV's Splash Page

Recent “Amazing Spider-Man” reshoots have yielded a surprising crop of new stills from the Manhattan-based movie, and they may be some of the most revealing yet...


Pass Masters - overtaking in 2011 analysed
Posted at Formula1.com

Following the arrival of DRS and Pirelli tyres, overtaking has been a frequent topic of discussion this season. With nearly 1500 passes over the last 18 races, the level of overtaking has certainly climbed, but the debate about the merits of the rule changes continues. As we approach the season finale in Brazil this weekend, Mercedes have compiled some facts and figures to help you make an assessment...


Latvala: consistency is key to WRC glory
Posted at WRC.com

Jari-Matti Latvala has told Wrc.com that he needs to be more consistent in order to challenge for next year's World Rally Championship crown.

The 26-year-old from Finland is being tipped as a genuine title contender in 2012 following several standout performances this season...


November 21, 2011

POSTGAME NOTEBOOK: Capitals 4, Coyotes 3
By Mike Vogel - Senior Writer at WashingtonCaps.com

That’s More Like It – Heading into Monday’s game against the Phoenix Coyotes, the Washington Capitals found themselves in very unfamiliar territory. They occupied ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings, one spot south of the final playoff spot and a mere two points out of 13th place in the conference...


'Avengers' And 'Thor' Villain Tom Hiddleston On His 'Amazing' Year
Posted by Josh Wigler at MTV's Splash Page

Tom Hiddleston is having an awesome year. He stunned the comic book and movie communities as Loki in "Thor", and he'll once again play the Asgardian mischief-maker in next summer's "Avengers". Looking past his impact on the comics scene, Hiddleston also had a memorable turn in Woody Allen's critically acclaimed "Midnight in Paris", has a big role coming up in Steven Spielberg's "War Horse", among other triumphs...

New Photos From The Dark Knight Rises!
Posted at Super Hero Hype

...In the article, Nolan reveals that the story picks up eight years after The Dark Knight. "It's really all about finishing Batman and Bruce Wayne's story. We left him in a very precarious place. Perhaps surprisingly for some people, our story picks up quite a bit later, eight years after 'The Dark Knight'. So he's an older Bruce Wayne; he's not in a great state. With Bane, we're looking to give Batman a challenge he hasn't had before. With our choice of villain and with our choice of story we're testing Batman both physically as well as mentally."...


Smith, Gillan & Darvill Live Q&A
Posted at Doctor Who TV

Matt Smith, Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill are taking take part in a Q&A session hosted by Doctor Who fan Jo Whiley. The event will be streaming live on Youtube from 4pm. Fans can ask questions through the comments on the right hand side of the video page.

UPDATE: If you missed it live, click the video below for the whole session.

Smith on BBC Breakfast (Nov 2011)
Posted at Doctor Who TV

Matt Smith was interviewed on BBC Breakfast today to promote the Series 6 box set. At the start, Matt confirms the filming date on Series 7 and mentions the 50th anniversary: “We shoot another 14 starting in February…It’ll be a whole series and a Christmas special. And going into the 50th anniversary, a 50th anniversary special.”

Hirvonen hopes Kimi stays in WRC
Posted at WRC.com

World Rally Championship runner-up Mikko Hirvonen wants Kimi Raikkonen to continue in the WRC in 2012 rather than returning to Formula One...

Panthers Vs Capitals 02/07/2009 Review

Capitals celebrate on home ice February 7, 2009.
Photo by Mitchell Layton / Getty Images

Panthers 1 - Capitals 3

The Washington Capitals increased their Southeast Division lead to 14 points by beating the second place Florida Panthers in Washington, DC last night. After one of their worst performances this season on Thursday night versus the Los Angeles Kings, the Capitals rebounded with a very respectable hard fought win.

Just 33 seconds into the game, Eric Fehr scored his sixth goal of the season, giving him five points in the last five games. David Steckel got the play started, gaining control of the puck deep in the Caps' end and sending it to Fehr. Eric sent an outlet pass to Tomas Fleischmann, who drew the two Panthers defenseman toward him going into the offensive zone before sending the puck back to Fehr. Fehr's snap shot sailed past netminder Tomas Vokoun high glove side. It took eight minutes for Florida's Keith Ballard to tie the game with a long range slap shot that got by Washington goalie Jose Theodore.

Neither team scored in the second period. For the Capitals, it was the first time in 15 periods that they failed to score at least one goal in a period. The third period started much like the first, though. Washington defenseman Mike Green got his 18th goal of the season 43 seconds into the final frame, matching his previous career high total from last season. As with most of Green's goals, this one came while on a power play. The goal increased his goal scoring streak to six straight games, with five being the former record for Caps defenseman. The league record for defenseman is seven consecutive games.

Unfortunately, the Capitals got into some serious penalty trouble toward the end of the game, starting with a Sergei Fedorov holding penalty at 14:04 into the third. With a very upset Fedorov still in the penalty box, Washington found themselves on the short side of a 5 on 3 for 1:05, when Shaone Morrisonn was dealt a five minute major plus a game misconduct after boarding Florida's Cory Stillman. Of course Stillman was hurt so bad he was back on the ice for the very next shift. The Caps' held the Panthers without a shot before Fedorov was released from the penalty box. Even while they were armed with three forwards and only one defenseman, Washington's penalty killing worked very well. There was a nervous moment when defenseman Tom Poti made a rare mistake, turning over the puck with a clearing pass that was picked off. But it was a very brief moment, as Karl Alzner (Just recalled from the AHL's Hershey Bears), David Steckel and Tom Poti cleared the front of the net.

The Panthers elected to have Vokoun out of the net in exchange for an extra skater for the last 1:48 of the game, including the final 1:47 of their power play. That didn't stop the Capitals from scoring a short handed goal at 18:47. Mike Green cleared the puck from deep in Washington's end, and it ended up in Florida's empty net for the Caps' third goal of the game. It was Green's second of the third period and 19th on the season, keeping him atop all defenseman in the league.

It seems ironic that it was Washington's D man Green putting the game away for the Capitals against the Panthers, who have the highest scoring group of defenseman in the NHL, with 36 goals amongst them. The Caps got some good goaltending from Theodore along with some honest to goodness forechecking, unlike in their defeat at the hands of the Kings on Thursday. Coach Bruce Boudreau also kept rolling the lines quickly while killing penalties, possibly putting the checking lines on the ice more often than he usually does. The Capitals will now hit the road for three games, starting with a visit to MSG in New York, NY to face the Rangers on Wednesday.

Shame On You!

There was a lot of stupid unnecessary drama and shameful actions (and sometimes lack of action) by the opponent, referees and league officials going on during the first round of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, while the Washington Capitals were playing against the New York Rangers. Now that the Capitals are up against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round, they are facing the same old tricks, complaining and injustices again.

Shame on Sidney Crosby for whining so much. Legitimate complaints would be fine, but crying about everything that doesn't go the way he wants is pathetic.

Shame on Kris Kunitz for the intentional two handed cross check to the throat of Simeon Varlamov in Semifinal Game 2.

Shame on Colin Campbell and the NHL for not suspending Kunitz. Fining him a lousy $2,500.00 isn't going to bother him one bit, and it's out of proportion to the suspensions they gave to Donald Brashear for his actions versus the Rangers.

Shame on the Penguins for their playoff game ticket giveaway screw up. Once tell someone they've won a prize, it's wrong to take it back.

Shame on the Penguins for complaining about something they themselves are guilty of.

Shame on the Penguins for making false accusations about faceoff cheating, illeagle pics and sticks just to wrongfully sway the thoughts of on ice officials.

Shame on the refs for being swayed by all the Penguins B.S.

Shame on the Penguins for complaining about officiating, when it's the Capitals who are the ones that have a right to complain.

Shame on CBC for broadcasting the Capitals coaching staff's game plan board with their keys to victory for Wednesday's Game 3 against the Penguins.

Dio - "Shame On The Night"

It's Not The 'Kiss Of Death'

Alex Ovechkin reacts to hitting cross bar in third period of Game 2.
April 18, 2009 photo by Getty Images.

The Southeast Division Champion (2 consecutive seasons) Washington Capitals have fallen behind in the first round of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. They lost the first game at home last Wednesday, then were shut out on Saturday afternoon. But it's not over yet Caps' fans. Getting behind by two games isn't the 'Kiss Of Death'. They can still pull it off. It hasn't been done very often, but it has been done before. It will be done again, so why not now? Why not by the Washington Capitals? Below, you'll see some of my thoughts on the current situation.


This is not a time for the coach or the players to say ... "I don't know what else to do".

The fans shouldn't be praying or begging ... "Please don't let this happen".

Everyone should remember ..."Whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger".

After the Capitals come back from behind to win the series, John Tortorella and the New York Rangers will tell you ... "Red is my bad luck color. I ain't got nothin' to do with red".

To those inconsistent refs, I say ... be a "Man of honor". And no, I don't need you to ask ... "Do you want my hand on it or somethin'?".

To Washington's defensemen, when you're guarding your own net ... "The time has come for everyone to clean up their own backyard".

When I hear Torts complaining about the officials, I think to myself (Dan, Jr. of Junior's Eyes ) ... "This mother smells scared Junior".

All the Capitals players need to be thinking ... "I will do whatever I have to do to protect me and mine".

Hey Alex Ovechkin. If anybody that's asked about your chances of winning the Stanley Cup this year says ... "Now is not the time my man, but I'm gonna see you real soon", just answer back ... "See me now!".

'Kiss Of Death' movie trailer.

Junior's Reading And Viewing List: May 1 - 7, 2010

Last Update - May 9, 2010 at 4:49 AM EDT

The fifth month of the year is under way. Look over this 'Reading And Viewing List' for the interesting web items from May 1 through May 7, 2010 that caught my attention.

As usual, some of the linked items that interested me had to do with subjects like the Washington Capitals hockey team, music, Formula One racing and the current World Rally Championship. The most informative 2010 F1 Spanish Grand Prix Preview and 2010 WRC Rally New Zealand Preview posts that I came across are included in this list.


May 7, 2010

Friday practice - selected team and driver quotes
Posted at Formula1.com

McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton was the fastest driver in action during the morning session at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya, whilst Red Bull ruled the roost in the afternoon. The leading teams and their rivals reflect on their early progress in Spain...

Practice Two - Red Bull run riot in Barcelona
Posted at Formula1.com

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber dished out a stern warning to their rivals at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya on Friday afternoon when, on a bone dry, track they dominated the second session of practice. Webber set the pace for much of the session, lapping eventually in 1m 20.175s, until Vettel slammed round in 1m 19.965s. He was the only man to breach the 1m 20s barrier...

2009-10 Rink Wrap: John Carlson
Posted by David M. Getz at Japers' Rink

Key Stat: 7,423 - the number of days John Carlson has been alive. In more typical terms, that's 20 years, 3 months, and 28 days.

Interesting Stat: Only three Capitals - Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Nicklas Backstrom - skated more minutes than Carlson in the postseason.

The Good: The AHL numbers (39 points and a plus-37 rating in 48 games) are dazzling, as are the eyewitness reports of what Carlson has done in Hershey. The World Junior heroics are already the stuff of legend. And then of course, there were the NHL playoffs, during which Carlson was arguably the team's best defenseman, inarguably a member of the team's best defensive pairing...

More Awards Nods for Ovi and George McPhee
By Hockey Mom at Musings Of A Hockey Mom

Yesterday brought the news of two more awards nominations for Capitals organization as Alex Ovechkin was one of three finalists for the Ted Lindsay Award, which is presented annually to the player judged as the most outstanding player in the NHL, as voted by fellow members of the NHLPA.Ovechkin, who has won the last two NHLPA’s “Most Outstanding Player” awards and the past two Hart Trophies, could join Guy Lafleur (1975-78) and Wayne Gretzky (1981-85) as the only players to ever win it three years in a row...

Practice One - McLaren set Spanish standard
Posted at Formula1.com

McLaren's Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button said they hoped for dry conditions here, and they got them in the first session of practice for this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix. The 2008 world champion lapped his McLaren MP4-25 half a second faster than his team mate, 1m 21.134s to 1m 21.672s, and the only man who got anywhere near them was Michael Schumacher, who lapped straight away in 1m 21.716s when he went out in his revamped Mercedes...

Pre-Spain analysis - dry running key for car development
Posted at Formula1.com

While the weather forecasts suggest that there will be rain at some stage during the Spanish Grand Prix in Catalunya - and similar conditions have helped to make the recent Australian, Malaysian and Chinese races nail-bitingly exciting, both McLaren’s Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton say that they would really prefer dry weather for practice, qualifying and the race. And for purely practical reasons - so many of the teams have brought along heavily revised aerodynamic packages, that they are all eager to learn exactly where they stand relative to one another...


May 6, 2010

Russ Thaler Talks Caps With Craig Laughlin - Part 2
Posted at Comcast SportsNet - Washington, DC

Right click on video to choose full screen option.

Russ Thaler Talks Caps With Craig Laughlin - Part 1
Posted at Comcast SportsNet - Washington, DC

Right click on video to choose full screen option.

Keeping the faith - exclusive Rubens Barrichello Q&A
Posted at Formula1.com

Rubens Barrichello is a very positive man. Without that balanced personality he probably would have thrown in the towel during his time at Honda - and would then never have tasted that sweet success with Brawn last year. With that mindset of never giving in, he has now set his sites on bringing Williams to a higher performance level - and achieving that magic figure of 300 Grand Prix starts...

FIA Thursday press conference - Spain
Posted at Formula1.com

Drivers: Fernando Alonso (Ferrari), Jaime Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), Pedro de la Rosa (BMW Sauber), Bruno Senna (HRT), Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull).

Q: A question to you all about the modifications you are getting here on your cars and what you are expecting they might do for the performance. Jaime, would you like to start.
Jaime Alguersuari: We have some upgrades for this race and hopefully we can see a big improvement for Barcelona. Hopefully we will have dry weather, so we can really see it and we need to see with the upgrades where the other teams are...

Alex Ovechkin up for NHLPA's most outstanding player
By Tarik El-Bashir at Capitals Insider

Alex Ovechkin has been named a finalist for the NHLPA's Ted Lindsay award, given annually to the most outstanding player as judged by his peers.

Ovechkin, which has won the award the past two seasons (it was formerly known as the Lester B. Pearson award), is joined by Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby and Vancouver's Henrik Sedin.

For more click here.

Is Anton Volchenkov The Answer? Depends on the Question
By David M. Getz at Japers' Rink

The NHL's postseason is only in the second round, the draft doesn't get underway for seven weeks, and even that precedes free agency by a week. Of course, none of that has stopped people from planning on behalf of the Capitals, speculating as to what the team's going to do, or flying into blind rages demanding massive turnover because heads must roll after the team's first round playoff exit.

Amid all the discussion, one of the more popular names thrown around is Anton Volchenkov (seriously, look how often his name comes up on this very site), the 28-year-old stay-at-home defenseman who has spent his NHL career to this point with the Ottawa Senators. But is Volchenkov the answer? Well, that depends on the question...

UFO Bassist Leaves Tour
Posted by mdome at Classic Rock

UFO have been forced into a change of bassist as they tour in Germany.

The Brit veterans are temporarily losing Barry Sparks, who’s had to fly back to America due to illness in his family...

George McPhee nominated for GM of the year (updated)
Posted by Tarik El-Bashir at Capitals Insider

George McPhee was nominated for the first annual General Manager of the year award, the NHL announced moments ago. The other finalists are Phoenix's Don Maloney and Nashville's David Poile...

2009-10 Rink Wrap: Matt Bradley
Posted by Becca H at Japers' Rink

Key Stat: Bradley set career highs in goals, assists and points, and registered his highest plus/minus season since 2001 - all while skating just over eleven minutes of ice time per night.

Interesting Stat: Five of Bradley's ten goals this season were game-winners, which tied for second on the team... clutch.

The Good: Bradley seemed to carry the momentum of last year's stellar postseason performance into this year, providing a surprising spark from the fourth line while continuing to do the little things he's always done - forechecking, penalty killing and generally being a pest. He had the best GAON/60 of the team's regular penalty killing forwards while facing relatively tough competition...

A lap of Barcelona with Renault's Robert Kubica
Posted at Formula1.com

Renault’s Robert Kubica talks us round a flying lap of Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya track ahead of this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix...

“Barcelona is one of the best-known tracks for all the teams and drivers because of the testing miles we do there over the winter. The racing is never brilliant because it’s so hard to overtake, but it’s still a fun Grand Prix with a good atmosphere and enthusiastic Spanish fans...

Spain Preview - who's taken the biggest step forward?
Posted at Formula1.com

The world championship battle really starts this weekend as the Spanish Grand Prix signals the commencement of the European leg, if you believe Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso. As his national race celebrates its 40th running since 1951, the Spaniard lies third in the title chase with 49 points to McLaren’s Jenson Button’s 60 and Mercedes GP’s Nico Rosberg’s 50...


May 5, 2010

McLaren: Turbo engines and KERS are the future
Posted at Formula1.com

It’s hard to believe that so soon into the 2010 season, the Formula One teams are already looking ahead to next year and beyond, but in a sport so fast-moving it never pays to be caught off guard.

So during Wednesday’s Vodafone McLaren Mercedes 'Phone-In' session Tim Goss, the chief engineer of McLaren’s current challenger, the MP4-25, had a lot more to discuss than simply this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, principally the possible introduction of KERS-assisted turbo engines in 2013, when the FIA’s stringent engine rules can be modified significantly for the first time since 2006...

The 2009-2010 season, by the "tens"
-- Centers: Brendan Morrison
By The Peerless at The Peerless Prognosticator

...Signing Morrison, especially given the potential for rekindling some magic with former Michigan Wolverine teammate Mike Knuble (already signed to a deal as a free agent), looked like a potential bargain. It started that way, too, but as you look at his ten-game segments, you will also see that like the full moon, the promise of his being a bargain diminished, if not day by day, then ten-game segment by ten-game segment...

Q&A with McLaren’s Tim Goss
Posted at Formula1.com

In a Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Phone-in, McLaren’s chief engineer on this year’s MP4-25 car, Tim Goss, discusses a variety of topics, ranging from Lewis Hamilton’s qualifying form and the team’s technical updates for Spain, to the role of turbos, KERS and larger tyres in the future of Formula One racing...

2009-10 Rink Wrap: Eric Belanger
Posted by J.P. at Japers' Rink

Key Stat: Belanger cost the Caps their second round pick in the 2010 Entry Draft.

Interesting Stat: Belanger had half as many points (one goal, two assists) in his NHL debut - which came at Verizon Center back on October 6, 2000 - as he had in 15 home games as a member of the Caps in 2010 (two goals, four assists).

The Good: Belanger was (and still is) the League's top face-off man in the playoffs, winning an astounding 66.7% of his draws. He committed only two penalties during his 17-game regular season stint with the Caps and won 52% of his face-offs in those games. And, of course, what he went through in Game 5 of the Habs series provides a new legend of dental-related heroics in the range of Captain Cadaver...

Matthew Vaughn To Direct 'X-Men: First Class',
Release Date Set For 2011
By Blair Marnell at MTV's Splash Page

Following reports earlier this week that "Kick-Ass" director Matthew Vaughn was back in the running to helm the next "X-Men" film, Fox has officially announced that Vaughn will direct "X-Men: First Class". "X-Men: First Class" will be released on June 3, 2011, according to Variety. While casting has not yet officially begun, The Hollywood Reporter is also speculating that "X-Men: First Class" producer Bryan Singer has already started to look at potential candidates...

Loeb praises New Zealand stages
Posted at WRC.com

Rally New Zealand has been presented with the highest possible accolade by the most successful driver in the history of the sport.

Six-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb has described it as “the rally with the most beautiful roads in the championship,” as he bids for his third victory on the all-gravel event out of six participations...

'Iron Man 2' Deleted Scenes: Black Widow Flirting,
'You Complete Me' Dive, More!
By Josh Wigler at MTV's Splash Page

"Iron Man 2" clocks in at just over two hours, but don't let the run time fool you – director Jon Favreau wasn't able to include every single scene he shot in the final version of the superhero sequel.

Speaking with MTV News, Favreau said that a multitude of "Iron Man 2" scenes were left on the editing room floor, but not due to any sort of studio pressure...

Draft details
Posted by Tarik El-Bashir at Capitals Insider

Since more than a few of you have inquired about June's draft and where the Caps will be selecting, here are the details:

The Caps have six picks, beginning with the 26th overall selection. After that, they've got picks in the third, fourth, fifth (two) and sixth...

Ferrari reliability engine changes approved
Posted at Formula1.com

The FIA has given consent to Ferrari to make modifications to their engine ahead of this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, in order to improve the V8’s reliability following issues during the opening four races of the season.

Fernando Alonso, Felipe Massa and both Ferrari-powered BMW Saubers have all encountered problems during the flyaway events, which prompted the team to investigate the root causes when they returned to their Maranello factory following last month’s China race...

Bret Michaels Discharged From Hospital
Posted by mdome at Classic Rock

Bret Michaels has been discharged from Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona and his now undergoing physical rehabilitation.

While the Poison singer remains in a critical condition, he’s now able to walk (although not very well), talk and is said to be mentally aware...

Rally New Zealand on wrc.com
Posted at WRC.com

Three weeks after the rocky roads of Turkey, the FIA World Rally Championship moves to the other side of the world this week when the fifth round of the series kicks off on the high speed gravel stages of Rally New Zealand.

After shakedown and a ceremonial start in the heart of host city Auckland on Thursday (6 May), the competitive action takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with crews taking on roads in the Whangarei, Kaipara, Franklin, North Waikato and Raglan districts, before the finish ceremony back at Auckland on Sunday...


May 4, 2010

Q&A with Renault's Alan Permane
Posted at Formula1.com

After gleaning 46 points from the opening four rounds of 2010, Renault have enjoyed a strong start to the season and are looking ahead optimistically to the forthcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Chief race engineer Alan Permane reflects on last month’s race in Shanghai and discusses the team’s chances at this weekend’s Barcelona round...

The 2009-2010 season, by the "tens"
-- Centers: Nicklas Backstrom
By The Peerless at The Peerless Prognosticator

...Sometimes, it is hard to fathom that Nicklas Backstrom just completed his third year in the NHL and that he is just 22 years old. His play this season was more like that of a 32-year old in many respects. But in this, his third season, he could lay claim to having improved his game to where he could be mentioned as being among the top five centers of the game. First on the list of improvements, his consistency, as reflected in his tens...

Hugo Weaving Confirmed As Red Skull In 'Captain America' Movie
By Blair Marnell at MTV's Splash Page

Marvel Studios has confirmed that Hugo Weaving will play The Red Skull in "The First Avenger: Captain America," Joe Johnston's live-action movie based on Marvel's superhero soldier.

Weaving will star opposite Chris Evans, who was cast as Steve Rogers in March, ending a long search for the film's lead actor. British actress Hayley Atwell will play the female lead, Peggy Carter, and Sebastian Stan will reportedly play Bucky, Cap's sidekick...

Heaven & Hell 2010 Tour Canceled [UPDATED]
By Joe Siegler at Black Sabbath Online

This text comes from the Tony Iommi website:

"We have to announce that all forthcoming Heaven & Hell European shows have been cancelled as sadly Ronnie isn't well enough to tour this summer. We hope that everyone understands and want to thank fans and industry colleagues for their continuing support at this time." Heaven & Hell - May 4th, 2010

That's sad, but I can't say completely unexpected. I will continue to pray for Ronnie's speedy recovery, but stomach cancer is not a simple thing to be toyed with. If he wasn't ready to go, then it's probably best he not try...

2009-10 Rink Wrap: Nicklas Backstrom
Posted by J.P. at Japers' Rink

Key Stat: Backstrom finished fourth in the NHL in scoring.

Interesting Stat: Backstrom led the NHL in road scoring in 2009-10.

The Good: Backstrom just keeps getting better, improving upon his 2008-09 totals in goals, assists, plus-minus, shots on goal, shooting percentage, face-off percentage and time on ice. This past season he became just the fourth player to have a 33-goal/68-assist season in the NHL since 1996-97, and he still hasn't missed a game since coming into the League...

Tony Stark's Father Will Have A Role In 'Captain America',
Says Jon Favreau
By Rick Marshall at MTV's Splash Page

At the risk of jumping too far ahead in the Marvel movie universe, the knowledge that Tony Stark's father will play a role in "Iron Man 2" had us thinking about the character's potential role in another movie, the World War II-based "The First Avenger: Captain America". When we had the chance to catch up with "Iron Man 2" director Jon Favreau, we had to ask, will Tony's dad make a cameo (or more) when Captain America arrives in theaters?...

Solberg cautiously confident after New Zealand test
Posted at WRC.com

The Petter Solberg World Rally Team has played down the advantage that a day of pre-event testing could give it in New Zealand.

Petter Solberg and Phil Mills tested their privately-entered Citroen C4 WRC on Monday on roads in New Zealand that were representative of the rally route they will face this week. Manufacturer 1 category teams are not allowed to test outside of Europe, whereas no such restrictions apply two Manufacturer 2 teams such as Solberg’s...

Ozzy: Full Album Details
Posted by mdome at Classic Rock

Ozzy Osbourne has revealed the full track listing for new album Scream.

Due out on June 14 through Epic, it’s the first studio record he’s done without guitarist Zakk Wylde since 1986’s The Ultimate Sin, and the first without drummer Mike Bordin since 1995. Gus G of Firewind and Tommy Clefetos (Rob Zombie, Alice Cooper) have taken over.

Here’s the full track listing:...

Franz Tost Q&A: Toro Rosso targeting more points in Spain
Posted at Formula1.com

Toro Rosso have endured their fair share of unsatisfying results so far this season, and the Italian team are currently eighth in the championship with a tally of just two points. However, team principal Franz Tost remains confident that the STR5 is a strong car and hopes it’s only a matter of time before the team can capitalise on their improving package to enjoy better results...

Ford pair happy to get back to New Zealand
Posted at WRC.com

BP Ford Abu Dhabi team drivers Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala are looking forward to getting back to the gravel stages of Rally New Zealand this week, despite a penultimate stage nightmare on their last attempt which cost them a one, two finish.

In 2008 things went wrong on the rally's final countryside stage, the 29.72km Whaanga Coast, when Latvala swiped a bank and retired from second with a damaged radiator, and leader Hirvonen punctured a tyre and spun his Focus RS WRC...


May 3, 2010

Mike Green Reflects On Capitals Season
Posted at Comcast SportsNet - Washington, DC

Right click on video to choose full screen option.

1 On 1 With Mike Green
Posted on Caps365 at WashingtonCaps.com

2009-10 Rink Wrap: Karl Alzner
Posted by J.P. at Japers' Rink

Key Stat: Alzner was recalled to Washington seven times this season.

Interesting Stat: All five of his points came in Caps wins, with the team going 5-0-0 when Alzner appeared on the score sheet.

The Good: Alzner had four points in his first ten NHL games of the season and was plus-two in that span (the team was also 9-1-0 during that stretch). More importantly, on a team that was penalty-kill challenged, Alzner had the best goals against on ice per sixty minutes at 4-on-5 of any Caps blueliner who averaged 30 seconds or more of PK time per game...

Caps' summer schedule
By Tarik El-Bashir at Capitals Insider

It finally hit me this morning: The season really is over. So I did what I always do the Monday after it ends: I put together my keep-an-eye-on-list for the summer. And because many of you have inquired about important offseason dates, I figured I would share it...

Jon Favreau Says Joss Whedon Is A 'Great Choice'
To Direct 'The Avengers'
By Blair Marnell at MTV's Splash Page

Last month, reports emerged that Joss Whedon was in final negotiations to direct "The Avengers", the highly anticipated film which will bring Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and Hulk together for the first time on the big screen.

And while Whedon's involvement with the film has yet to be confirmed by either Marvel or Whedon himself, "Iron Man 2" director Jon Favreau has offered a ringing endorsement of the "Buffy The Vampire Slayer", "Angel" and "Firefly" creator...

Robert Downey Jr. Explains Why The Theme Of 'Iron Man 2' Is 'Legacy'
By Blair Marnell at MTV's Splash Page

Earlier this month, "Iron Man 2" director Jon Favreau offered some hints regarding the impact that Howard Stark — Tony Stark's father — would have on the film through bookend scenes at the Stark Expo, both in the past and present.

And while the relationship between Tony Stark and his father will be a central part of the sequel, it won't be the only legacy dealt with in "Iron Man 2" according to Robert Downey Jr...

WRC stars make a splash in Auckland Harbour
Posted at WRC.com

With the start of Rally New Zealand just a few days away, the stars of the World Rally Championship kept adrenaline levels up on Monday with a day of action on - and in - Auckland Harbour.

WRC drivers including Mikko Hirvonen, Jari-Matti Latvala, Dani Sordo and Sebastien Loeb set sail aboard the America's Cup racing yacht, NZL40. After being taught the basics of how to sail by skipper Eric Haagh the drivers split into Ford and Citroen teams to tackle a course in the harbour...


Ogier set for New Zealand bonus
Posted at WRC.com

Citroen Junior Team driver Sebastien Ogier says he can't wait to make his Rally New Zealand debut this week after the event was added to his 2010 WRC programme at the eleventh hour.

Ogier and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia were meant to have taken part in just 12 rallies this year, but received an unexpected bonus in the form of Rally New Zealand after impressing team bosses with a podium result in Rally Mexico...

Fisichella tests Ferrari 'F-duct' at Vairano
Posted at Formula1.com

As the rest of Italy celebrated May Day on Saturday, Ferrari were busy carrying out straight-line aero testing at Vairano. The team debuted their version of McLaren’s ‘F-duct’ system, whereby the driver can stall the rear wing at high speed in order to cut drag and boost top speed...

Spain preview quotes - Red Bull, McLaren, Renault, Force India
& more
Posted at Formula1.com

After the hard slog of four long-haul races, the European leg of the F1 season kicks off next weekend with the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. The Circuit de Catalunya is a venue the teams know well from testing, though racing there is a completely different challenge. The drivers and senior team personnel discuss their prospects...


May 2, 2010

It's been a brutal year for Great Eight
By tj at Alex Ovetjkin

...There's a lot of truth in Elliotte's observations. Ovi, though he would never admit it, is a sensitive guy. He was asked if he heard the boos in Montreal every time he was touching the puck and he said something like "I don't hear anything." I think because he likes the city of Montreal, the fans (especially girls :-) it was hurting him. One thing he's been booed in Philadelphia or in Pittsburgh, those are the enemies and you can't expect anything else, another thing it's the city and the team he grew up to admire. For him Montreal Canadiens are like Moscow Dynamo, so much history, so much respect.

As of Ovi being too predictable, it's only partially true. When he is in his top form, when he is hot, you can't stop him even when you know what he is going to do next. That's what the greatest players do...

Mini-Summer Vacation Before the End of Hockey Season
for the Hershey Bears
By pucksandbooks at On Frozen Blog

The Worcester Ice Cats defeated the Manchester Monarchs 3-2 last night to even their American League Eastern Conference semifinal series at two games a piece. Why is that of note? It means more R&R for the Hershey Bears — perhaps too much of it.

The Bears ended their conference semifinal series with Albany in upstate New York last Thursday night. The Bears swept the Rats, but the series was anything but easy — three of the games went to overtime...

How to Excel as a College Hockey Player
Guest post by Tom Tessin at Love the Game, Don't Like Puck Bunnies

Whether you’re playing ice hockey in college now or planning to, here are six simple effective tips to excel as a hockey player in college.

When you use these helpful tips on networking and skill development, you can get noticed by recruiters and scouts, who can take you far, maybe even to the professional leagues such as NHL or CWHL...

Citroen and Loeb out to defend their leads in New Zealand
Posted at WRC.com

After three rally wins on the bounce, defending world champion Sebastien Loeb is heading to the Antipodes determined to continue in the same vein - even though a handsome advantage in the drivers' standings means he'll leave New Zealand as leader no matter what.

In the last Rally New Zealand in 2008, Loeb and his team-mate Dani Sordo gave the Citroen Total World Rally Team a one-two result. And while a string of bad luck for Sordo has scuppered that sort of dominance so far this year, a second place for Loeb in Sweden, followed by wins on the next three rounds...


May 1, 2010

'Doctor Who' Review: Episode 5.03, 'Victory Of The Daleks'
By Mark Gatiss at MTV's Splash Page

Story: The Doctor is summoned by his old buddy Winston Churchill, who believes he has a new secret weapon in the battle against the Third Reich. While bombers set their sights on London, The Doctor and his companion, Amy Pond, come face to face with an old enemy — the evil Daleks.

But could The Doctor's greatest enemies be the nation's best defense?...

Bret Michaels: Health Update
Posted by mdome at Classic Rock

An update on Poison frontman Bret Michaels’ condition, following his brain haemorrhage, has been posted on his website.

The statement says:...

Ozzfest: Full Line-Up Announced
Posted by mdome at Classic Rock

Ozzy Osbourne and Mötley Crüe are to co-headline this year’s Ozzfest tour of America.

They’ll be joined on the main stage by Halford, Devildriver and Nonpoint.

The second stage features the following bands:...

Irregular Postseason
Posted by Mike Vogel at Dump 'N Chase

In the last week or so of the 2009-10 regular season, leading up to the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs, there was much debate locally about Washington’s potential first-round playoff opponent. With so many possibilities – Boston, Philadelphia, Montreal, Atlanta and the New York Rangers were all in the mix going into the final week – it was fun to debate the merits non-merits of each possibility.

Those of us who travel with the team debated the candidates on the basis of best cities to visit, with each of the five having some benefits in that area but Montreal coming up on top of most people’s list. But from a hockey standpoint and from the standpoint of hoping the Caps would draw an opponent that would enable them to make quick work of a first-round opponent...