Philadelphia Flyers Draw Even With New York Rangers

Apr 20, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Philadelphia Flyers center Jason Akeson (42) scores a goal against New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period in game two of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Flyers and Ray Emery overcame a shaky start to score 4 unanswered goals and earn a split in Madison Square Garden to even the series at a game apiece.

The Rangers got out early, with Martin St. Louis and Benoit Pouliot scoring in the first 8:22 seconds to put the Flyers on the ropes early.

JakubVoracek got one back before the first period was over, and then two unlikely scorers put the Flyers ahead in the second.  First, Jason Akeson, whose double minor in game 1 led to two Rangers power play goals, scored his first career playoff goal to tie it up. Then Luke Schenn also got his first career playoff goal 5 and a half minutes later to give the Flyers their first lead of the game, which they would end up holding onto.  Wayne Simmonds capped it off, potting an empty netter with 26 seconds left and Henrik Lundqvist on the bench.

Eleven different Flyers had points in the game, and it took a different twist in the second period as on two occasions the Rangers were called for diving, a reputation that tends to follow a team around.

The Rangers two goals came on their first 4 shots, but Emery was perfect on the next 29 to get the win.

The Flyers got their wish of a split on the road and have taken home ice advantage heading into Tuesday’s game in Philly.