The Philadelphia Flyers opened their playoff run in style Saturday night, knocking off the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 in Game 1 of the first-round series.

Defenseman Travis Sanheim delivered the biggest moment of the night, scoring the go-ahead goal midway through the third period to give the Flyers their first lead since early in the game. Dan Vladar was sharp between the pipes, stopping 14 shots to secure the win.

After a scoreless first period, the Flyers struck in the second with a goal from Jamie Drysdale before trading goals with Pittsburgh. The Penguins got on the board behind Evgeni Malkin, but Philadelphia responded including another goal from rookie Porter Martone and ultimately pulled away late.

The win marks an early statement in the renewed “Battle of Pennsylvania,” with the Flyers grabbing a 1-0 series lead on the road. With momentum now on their side, the Orange and Black will look to build on the strong start as the series continues on Monday night in the Steel City.

— STP Staff