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Deadspin | ATP roundup: Ben Shelton shows love of clay, wins BMW title Ben Shelton connects with the ball during his second-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., Friday, March 6, 2026. Ben Shelton rolled to his second title of the year, winning the BMW Open with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli at Munich, Germany. Shelton won 85% of his first-serve points on the clay surface and saved all six break points he faced to win his fifth career title and first since Dallas earlier this year. Shelton showed his form early when he broke Cobolli’s serve twice in the first three games of the match. With the second set tied 5-5, Shelton broke Cobolli again and won on serve on his first match point. Shelton became the first American man since 2009 to win three ATP 500 titles. “I have big ambitions for the clay courts,” Shelton said in his post-match interview. “It is a surface I want to get better on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favorite surfaces to play on.” Barcelona Open Arthur Fils of France held off a late charge from Russia’s Andrey Rublev to record a 6-2, 7-6 (2) victory in the final of the tournament. Fils won his first title since returning in February after missing eight months because of a back injury. Fils was well on his way to victory after cruising in the first set and leading 5-2 in the second before Rublev dug in his heels. Rublev broke Fils’ serve to pull within 5-4 in the second set, then staved off one match point to make it 5-5. Rublev broke serve again to lead 6-5 in the second set before Fils finally regained control and finished off the match in a tiebreak. “The end of the second set was just about the mental (pressure),” Fils said. “The whole match was a bit tough because I was a bit tight. I played well for a set and a half, but when I had to close, I started to think a little. But I’m very happy with the way I played the tiebreak.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #ATP #roundup #Ben #Shelton #shows #love #clay #wins #BMW #title

Deadspin | ATP roundup: Ben Shelton shows love of clay, wins BMW title
Deadspin | ATP roundup: Ben Shelton shows love of clay, wins BMW title Ben Shelton connects with the ball during his second-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., Friday, March 6, 2026. Ben Shelton rolled to his second title of the year, winning the BMW Open with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli at Munich, Germany. Shelton won 85% of his first-serve points on the clay surface and saved all six break points he faced to win his fifth career title and first since Dallas earlier this year. Shelton showed his form early when he broke Cobolli’s serve twice in the first three games of the match. With the second set tied 5-5, Shelton broke Cobolli again and won on serve on his first match point. Shelton became the first American man since 2009 to win three ATP 500 titles. “I have big ambitions for the clay courts,” Shelton said in his post-match interview. “It is a surface I want to get better on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favorite surfaces to play on.” Barcelona Open Arthur Fils of France held off a late charge from Russia’s Andrey Rublev to record a 6-2, 7-6 (2) victory in the final of the tournament. Fils won his first title since returning in February after missing eight months because of a back injury. Fils was well on his way to victory after cruising in the first set and leading 5-2 in the second before Rublev dug in his heels. Rublev broke Fils’ serve to pull within 5-4 in the second set, then staved off one match point to make it 5-5. Rublev broke serve again to lead 6-5 in the second set before Fils finally regained control and finished off the match in a tiebreak. “The end of the second set was just about the mental (pressure),” Fils said. “The whole match was a bit tough because I was a bit tight. I played well for a set and a half, but when I had to close, I started to think a little. But I’m very happy with the way I played the tiebreak.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #ATP #roundup #Ben #Shelton #shows #love #clay #wins #BMW #titleBen Shelton connects with the ball during his second-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., Friday, March 6, 2026.

Ben Shelton rolled to his second title of the year, winning the BMW Open with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli at Munich, Germany.

Shelton won 85% of his first-serve points on the clay surface and saved all six break points he faced to win his fifth career title and first since Dallas earlier this year. Shelton showed his form early when he broke Cobolli’s serve twice in the first three games of the match.

With the second set tied 5-5, Shelton broke Cobolli again and won on serve on his first match point. Shelton became the first American man since 2009 to win three ATP 500 titles.

“I have big ambitions for the clay courts,” Shelton said in his post-match interview. “It is a surface I want to get better on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favorite surfaces to play on.”

Barcelona Open


Arthur Fils of France held off a late charge from Russia’s Andrey Rublev to record a 6-2, 7-6 (2) victory in the final of the tournament.

Fils won his first title since returning in February after missing eight months because of a back injury.

Fils was well on his way to victory after cruising in the first set and leading 5-2 in the second before Rublev dug in his heels. Rublev broke Fils’ serve to pull within 5-4 in the second set, then staved off one match point to make it 5-5.

Rublev broke serve again to lead 6-5 in the second set before Fils finally regained control and finished off the match in a tiebreak.

“The end of the second set was just about the mental (pressure),” Fils said. “The whole match was a bit tough because I was a bit tight. I played well for a set and a half, but when I had to close, I started to think a little. But I’m very happy with the way I played the tiebreak.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #ATP #roundup #Ben #Shelton #shows #love #clay #wins #BMW #title

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Ben Shelton connects with the ball during his second-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., Friday, March 6, 2026.

Ben Shelton rolled to his second title of the year, winning the BMW Open with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli at Munich, Germany.

Shelton won 85% of his first-serve points on the clay surface and saved all six break points he faced to win his fifth career title and first since Dallas earlier this year. Shelton showed his form early when he broke Cobolli’s serve twice in the first three games of the match.

With the second set tied 5-5, Shelton broke Cobolli again and won on serve on his first match point. Shelton became the first American man since 2009 to win three ATP 500 titles.

“I have big ambitions for the clay courts,” Shelton said in his post-match interview. “It is a surface I want to get better on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favorite surfaces to play on.”

Barcelona Open

Arthur Fils of France held off a late charge from Russia’s Andrey Rublev to record a 6-2, 7-6 (2) victory in the final of the tournament.

Fils won his first title since returning in February after missing eight months because of a back injury.

Fils was well on his way to victory after cruising in the first set and leading 5-2 in the second before Rublev dug in his heels. Rublev broke Fils’ serve to pull within 5-4 in the second set, then staved off one match point to make it 5-5.

Rublev broke serve again to lead 6-5 in the second set before Fils finally regained control and finished off the match in a tiebreak.

“The end of the second set was just about the mental (pressure),” Fils said. “The whole match was a bit tough because I was a bit tight. I played well for a set and a half, but when I had to close, I started to think a little. But I’m very happy with the way I played the tiebreak.”

–Field Level Media

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ISL 2025-26: Mohun Bagan narrowly beats NorthEast United in rain-interrupted clash in Guwahati <div id="content-body-70881972" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Mohun Bagan Super Giant edged NorthEast United FC with a 1-0 victory in a rain-affected contest at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday in Indian Super League 2025-26.</p><p>The defending champion took the lead inside five minutes through Robson, who arrived late into the box to finish a well-worked move, and then relied on a disciplined defensive display led by Vishal Kaith to see out the result in difficult conditions.</p><p>With this victory, Mohun Bagan SG move to the top of the table with 20 points from nine matches, opening a two-point lead over Mumbai City FC. NorthEast United FC, meanwhile, remains 12th with seven points from the same number of matches.</p><p><b>AS IT HAPPENED | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/indian-football/northeast-united-vs-mohun-bagan-super-giant-live-score-highlights-isl-update-neufc-v-mbsg/article70880869.ece" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">NorthEast United vs Mohun Bagan Highlights</a></b></p><p>The Mariners started brightly and showed intent from the opening exchanges, with Jamie Maclaren making a surging run down the right in the third minute before being denied by a timely interception from the Highlanders right back Robin Yadav.</p><p>The breakthrough arrived soon after in the fifth minute with a fluid attacking move. Liston Colaco initiated the play from the right and found Sahal Abdul Samad, who drove into the box before cutting the ball back into the centre. Robson timed his run to perfection, meeting the pass with a composed right-footed finish into the top of the net to hand Mohun Bagan an early advantage.</p><p>Mohun Bagan continued to dominate possession through the first half, with Jason Cummings, Sahal, and Robinho all testing the NorthEast defence, but Gurmeet Singh stood firm in goal to keep the margin at one. The heavy rain made conditions increasingly difficult, with the ball skidding unpredictably and both sides struggling to maintain control in the final third.</p><p>NorthEast United gradually grew into the game and had its first real opportunity in the 36th minute when Parthib Gogoi was played through, but Vishal Kaith came off his line smartly to narrow the angle and force the effort wide.</p><div class="verticle article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/nxfc2b/article70882041.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/NEUFC%20vs%20MBSG%202.jpg.jpeg" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/nxfc2b/article70882041.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/NEUFC%20vs%20MBSG%202.jpg.jpeg" alt="Both sides found it difficult to build sustained attacks, though NorthEast showed greater urgency in its pursuit of an equaliser." title="Both sides found it difficult to build sustained attacks, though NorthEast showed greater urgency in its pursuit of an equaliser." class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/><div class="pic-caption"><figcaption class="figure-caption align-text-bottom"><p> Both sides found it difficult to build sustained attacks, though NorthEast showed greater urgency in its pursuit of an equaliser. | Photo Credit: ISL Media </p><img class="caption-image" src="https://assetsss.thehindu.com/theme/images/SSRX/lightbox-info.svg" alt="lightbox-info"/></figcaption></div><p class="caption"> Both sides found it difficult to build sustained attacks, though NorthEast showed greater urgency in its pursuit of an equaliser. | Photo Credit: ISL Media </p></div><p>Despite the host enjoying more of the ball towards the end of the first half, Mohun Bagan’s defensive structure held strong, ensuring it carried its slender lead into the interval on a stormy night in Guwahati.</p><p>The second half resumed after an extended break due to heavy rainfall, and the conditions continued to influence the tempo of the game. Both sides found it difficult to build sustained attacks, though NorthEast showed greater urgency in its pursuit of an equaliser.</p><p>Macarton Nickson and Thoi Singh both tried their luck from distance, while Vishal Kaith remained alert to deny efforts from range. As the game wore on, the Highlanders pushed more bodies forward, sensing an opportunity to salvage a point.</p><p>Their best chance came in stoppage time when substitute Ankith Padmanabhan found space inside the box, but Kaith reacted quickly to make a crucial save. The rebound fell to Jairo Samperio, whose attempt was heroically blocked by center back Mehtab Singh, preserving Mohun Bagan’s lead. Moments later, Mehtab was again called into action, producing another vital clearance to deny Andy Rodríguez.</p><p>In the end, Robson’s early goal proved enough for Mohun Bagan Super Giant to secure all three points in testing conditions.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 19, 2026</p></div> #ISL #Mohun #Bagan #narrowly #beats #NorthEast #United #raininterrupted #clash #Guwahati

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Tough time, but we’ll stay together: Harmanpreet Kaur after second successive T20I defeat <div id="content-body-70881884" itemprop="articleBody"><p>India captain Harmanpreet Kaur admitted her team is going through a tough phase but stressed the need to stick together and bounce back after suffering its second successive defeat to South Africa in the women’s T20 International series here on Sunday.</p><p>India went down meekly by eight wickets in the second women’s T20I to trail 0-2 in the five-match series here on Sunday.</p><p>Asked to bat first, India was all out for 147 and SA chased down the target quite comfortably, reaching 148 for 2 in 17.1 overs.</p><p>“Tough time. We as a team need to stay together,” Harmanpreet said at the post-match presentation.</p><p><b>READ</b> | <b><a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/womens-cricket/india-vs-south-africa-women-2nd-t20i-today-result-laura-wolvaardt/article70881852.ece" target="_blank">Wolvaardt, Luus fifties help South Africa script 8-wicket win over India</a></b></p><p>“Hopefully, we’ll go (to Johannesburg for the third match on April 22) with positive approach. T20 format is like that: it’s about staying together.” Harmanpreet rued that her team could not do well in the death-over batting and powerplay bowling.</p><p>“I think with bat, we were not able to contribute the way we wanted. Last ten overs of the innings we did not bat well. We need to think how we go about next three matches. When you’re not getting the shots, rotating strike is a key point. We were discussing… we can rotate strike and it can help us through that time. But it’s a time when things didn’t work.</p><p>“Powerplay, while bowling, is not going our way.”</p><p>Opener Shafali Verma was the lone bright spot for India with a 38-ball 57, which was studded with seven fours and two sixes.</p><p>“Shafali been a great talent for us. Hope she’ll continue [the same way] for us,” the skipper said.</p><p>South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said restricting India to 147 all out was a good job done by her side.</p><p>“Pretty good catching, one or two put down, but we took one or two good ones as well. After start they had, restricting them was great,” she said.</p><p>“The area we struggled with last season (death bowling), bowlers identified bowling slower ones into the wicket was helping. It’s something we’ve talked a lot about. Being present on the cricket field. Little things showing on the field.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 19, 2026</p></div> #Tough #time #stay #Harmanpreet #Kaur #successive #T20I #defeat

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Second seed Ben Shelton won the ATP 500 clay-court title in Munich for the first time, beating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli 6-2, 7-5 in the final on Sunday.

A year after finishing runner-up to Alexander Zverev, the World No. 6 secured the fifth ATP title of his career and his second of the season after Dallas.

“I came out at a really high level and have done that before against him,” Shelton said. “The toughest thing is maintaining it as he raises his level. I managed to do that in the second set and played some great tennis.

“I’m happy with my performance this week. I got better and better as the week went on, and I’m happy with the work my team and I put in.”

Shelton, who won an ATP 250 clay-court title in Houston in 2024, also became the first American man since Andre Agassi at the Rome Masters in 2002 to win a title at a higher level on clay.

ALSO READ: NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets

“I have big ambitions on clay,” Shelton added. “It is a surface I want to improve on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favourite surfaces.”

Cobolli, who had impressed in the semifinal with a win over Zverev, could not replicate that level in the final.

Shelton dominated the opening set, breaking in Cobolli’s first two service games. The Italian saved eight set points, six on his own serve, before conceding the set on the ninth.

The second set was more closely contested, with both players holding serve until 5-5. A double fault from Cobolli handed Shelton a crucial break, and the American served out the match in one hour and 31 minutes.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Shelton #defeats #Italian #Cobolli #lift #Munich #title #extends #claycourt #surge">Shelton defeats Italian Cobolli to lift Munich title, extends clay-court surge Second seed Ben Shelton won the ATP 500 clay-court title in Munich for the first time, beating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli 6-2, 7-5 in the final on Sunday.A year after finishing runner-up to Alexander Zverev, the World No. 6 secured the fifth ATP title of his career and his second of the season after Dallas.“I came out at a really high level and have done that before against him,” Shelton said. “The toughest thing is maintaining it as he raises his level. I managed to do that in the second set and played some great tennis.“I’m happy with my performance this week. I got better and better as the week went on, and I’m happy with the work my team and I put in.”Shelton, who won an ATP 250 clay-court title in Houston in 2024, also became the first American man since Andre Agassi at the Rome Masters in 2002 to win a title at a higher level on clay.ALSO READ: NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets“I have big ambitions on clay,” Shelton added. “It is a surface I want to improve on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favourite surfaces.”Cobolli, who had impressed in the semifinal with a win over Zverev, could not replicate that level in the final.Shelton dominated the opening set, breaking in Cobolli’s first two service games. The Italian saved eight set points, six on his own serve, before conceding the set on the ninth.The second set was more closely contested, with both players holding serve until 5-5. A double fault from Cobolli handed Shelton a crucial break, and the American served out the match in one hour and 31 minutes.Published on Apr 19, 2026 #Shelton #defeats #Italian #Cobolli #lift #Munich #title #extends #claycourt #surge

NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets

“I have big ambitions on clay,” Shelton added. “It is a surface I want to improve on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favourite surfaces.”

Cobolli, who had impressed in the semifinal with a win over Zverev, could not replicate that level in the final.

Shelton dominated the opening set, breaking in Cobolli’s first two service games. The Italian saved eight set points, six on his own serve, before conceding the set on the ninth.

The second set was more closely contested, with both players holding serve until 5-5. A double fault from Cobolli handed Shelton a crucial break, and the American served out the match in one hour and 31 minutes.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Shelton #defeats #Italian #Cobolli #lift #Munich #title #extends #claycourt #surge">Shelton defeats Italian Cobolli to lift Munich title, extends clay-court surge

Second seed Ben Shelton won the ATP 500 clay-court title in Munich for the first time, beating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli 6-2, 7-5 in the final on Sunday.

A year after finishing runner-up to Alexander Zverev, the World No. 6 secured the fifth ATP title of his career and his second of the season after Dallas.

“I came out at a really high level and have done that before against him,” Shelton said. “The toughest thing is maintaining it as he raises his level. I managed to do that in the second set and played some great tennis.

“I’m happy with my performance this week. I got better and better as the week went on, and I’m happy with the work my team and I put in.”

Shelton, who won an ATP 250 clay-court title in Houston in 2024, also became the first American man since Andre Agassi at the Rome Masters in 2002 to win a title at a higher level on clay.

ALSO READ: NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets

“I have big ambitions on clay,” Shelton added. “It is a surface I want to improve on each year. It is slowly becoming one of my favourite surfaces.”

Cobolli, who had impressed in the semifinal with a win over Zverev, could not replicate that level in the final.

Shelton dominated the opening set, breaking in Cobolli’s first two service games. The Italian saved eight set points, six on his own serve, before conceding the set on the ninth.

The second set was more closely contested, with both players holding serve until 5-5. A double fault from Cobolli handed Shelton a crucial break, and the American served out the match in one hour and 31 minutes.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Shelton #defeats #Italian #Cobolli #lift #Munich #title #extends #claycourt #surge
Deadspin | Flyers aim to take 2-0 lead over rival Penguins Apr 18, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar (80) makes a save against Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Anthony Mantha (39) during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The Philadelphia Flyers got the best of the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 1, but both teams understand that the Keystone State rivals are likely headed for a long series. The Flyers aim to take a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Penguins when the teams match up Monday in Pittsburgh. In Saturday’s series opener, Philadelphia posted a 3-2 victory behind third-period goals from Travis Sanheim and Porter Martone. Sanheim, one of the team’s veteran players, scored the go-ahead goal midway through the final session before Martone added an insurance tally with 2:37 remaining. Martone’s goal proved to be critical as Bryan Rust scored with 1:01 to play. However, Philadelphia goaltender Dan Vladar stayed firm down the stretch as the Flyers held on. “I think I understand the level that’s needed to play in the playoffs,” said Sanheim, who helped keep Sidney Crosby off the scoreboard. “I understand the challenge ahead and my job, playing against top guys.” Crosby and Sanheim received penalties late in the third period – Crosby for slashing and Sanheim for cross-checking – that forced both key players off the ice for the final stretch. “That’s going to be part of a series,” Crosby said. “I think we’ve got to stay out of it a little bit more and trust that when they do it and try to start it up, that they’re going to get penalized for it. But that’s more something I think they’re looking to do. We’ve got to stay out of it and trust they’ll be undisciplined.” Jamie Drysdale also scored for Philadelphia, while Rasmus Ristolainen notched a pair of assists. The headline, though, was Martone with the game-winning goal in his postseason debut. “Everyone’s been great,” said the 19-year-old Martone, the sixth pick in the 2025 draft. “I think we were all pretty excited going into this game, being able to play in the playoffs. For me, it’s my 10th NHL game. It’s pretty special, and it’s an opportunity you can’t pass up.” Philadelphia is in the postseason for the first time since 2020, while Pittsburgh is back in the playoffs for the first time since 2022. The Penguins certainly don’t want to go down 2-0 in the series before heading across the state for Games 3 and 4. “(The Flyers) make it hard,” Pittsburgh coach Dan Muse said. “I think that’s part of their game. They’ve been doing that for a while. … They can make it difficult. I think we got away from things that worked. Part of that is the intensity. Everything is ramped up here in the playoffs.” Pittsburgh’s Evgeni Malkin was a force in Game 1 with a goal and an assist. He has 68 goals and 114 assists in 178 career playoff games. “We played good all year long,” Malkin said. “We know how we play and we just, like, maybe nervous too much or we want (it) too much. We just (weren’t) thinking a little bit, I think.” The Flyers are expecting a crisper overall effort by the Penguins in Sunday’s affair. “We did a good job, but we know they’re going to respond,” Philadelphia captain Sean Couturier said. “We know they’re going to come hard next game. We’ve got to keep respecting their skill and just be prepared.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Flyers #aim #lead #rival #PenguinsApr 18, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar (80) makes a save against Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Anthony Mantha (39) during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Flyers got the best of the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 1, but both teams understand that the Keystone State rivals are likely headed for a long series.

The Flyers aim to take a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Penguins when the teams match up Monday in Pittsburgh.

In Saturday’s series opener, Philadelphia posted a 3-2 victory behind third-period goals from Travis Sanheim and Porter Martone. Sanheim, one of the team’s veteran players, scored the go-ahead goal midway through the final session before Martone added an insurance tally with 2:37 remaining.

Martone’s goal proved to be critical as Bryan Rust scored with 1:01 to play. However, Philadelphia goaltender Dan Vladar stayed firm down the stretch as the Flyers held on.

“I think I understand the level that’s needed to play in the playoffs,” said Sanheim, who helped keep Sidney Crosby off the scoreboard. “I understand the challenge ahead and my job, playing against top guys.”

Crosby and Sanheim received penalties late in the third period – Crosby for slashing and Sanheim for cross-checking – that forced both key players off the ice for the final stretch.

“That’s going to be part of a series,” Crosby said. “I think we’ve got to stay out of it a little bit more and trust that when they do it and try to start it up, that they’re going to get penalized for it. But that’s more something I think they’re looking to do. We’ve got to stay out of it and trust they’ll be undisciplined.”


Jamie Drysdale also scored for Philadelphia, while Rasmus Ristolainen notched a pair of assists. The headline, though, was Martone with the game-winning goal in his postseason debut.

“Everyone’s been great,” said the 19-year-old Martone, the sixth pick in the 2025 draft. “I think we were all pretty excited going into this game, being able to play in the playoffs. For me, it’s my 10th NHL game. It’s pretty special, and it’s an opportunity you can’t pass up.”

Philadelphia is in the postseason for the first time since 2020, while Pittsburgh is back in the playoffs for the first time since 2022. The Penguins certainly don’t want to go down 2-0 in the series before heading across the state for Games 3 and 4.

“(The Flyers) make it hard,” Pittsburgh coach Dan Muse said. “I think that’s part of their game. They’ve been doing that for a while. … They can make it difficult. I think we got away from things that worked. Part of that is the intensity. Everything is ramped up here in the playoffs.”

Pittsburgh’s Evgeni Malkin was a force in Game 1 with a goal and an assist. He has 68 goals and 114 assists in 178 career playoff games.

“We played good all year long,” Malkin said. “We know how we play and we just, like, maybe nervous too much or we want (it) too much. We just (weren’t) thinking a little bit, I think.”

The Flyers are expecting a crisper overall effort by the Penguins in Sunday’s affair.

“We did a good job, but we know they’re going to respond,” Philadelphia captain Sean Couturier said. “We know they’re going to come hard next game. We’ve got to keep respecting their skill and just be prepared.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Flyers #aim #lead #rival #Penguins">Deadspin | Flyers aim to take 2-0 lead over rival Penguins Apr 18, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar (80) makes a save against Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Anthony Mantha (39) during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The Philadelphia Flyers got the best of the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 1, but both teams understand that the Keystone State rivals are likely headed for a long series. The Flyers aim to take a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Penguins when the teams match up Monday in Pittsburgh. In Saturday’s series opener, Philadelphia posted a 3-2 victory behind third-period goals from Travis Sanheim and Porter Martone. Sanheim, one of the team’s veteran players, scored the go-ahead goal midway through the final session before Martone added an insurance tally with 2:37 remaining. Martone’s goal proved to be critical as Bryan Rust scored with 1:01 to play. However, Philadelphia goaltender Dan Vladar stayed firm down the stretch as the Flyers held on. “I think I understand the level that’s needed to play in the playoffs,” said Sanheim, who helped keep Sidney Crosby off the scoreboard. “I understand the challenge ahead and my job, playing against top guys.” Crosby and Sanheim received penalties late in the third period – Crosby for slashing and Sanheim for cross-checking – that forced both key players off the ice for the final stretch. “That’s going to be part of a series,” Crosby said. “I think we’ve got to stay out of it a little bit more and trust that when they do it and try to start it up, that they’re going to get penalized for it. But that’s more something I think they’re looking to do. We’ve got to stay out of it and trust they’ll be undisciplined.” Jamie Drysdale also scored for Philadelphia, while Rasmus Ristolainen notched a pair of assists. The headline, though, was Martone with the game-winning goal in his postseason debut. “Everyone’s been great,” said the 19-year-old Martone, the sixth pick in the 2025 draft. “I think we were all pretty excited going into this game, being able to play in the playoffs. For me, it’s my 10th NHL game. It’s pretty special, and it’s an opportunity you can’t pass up.” Philadelphia is in the postseason for the first time since 2020, while Pittsburgh is back in the playoffs for the first time since 2022. The Penguins certainly don’t want to go down 2-0 in the series before heading across the state for Games 3 and 4. “(The Flyers) make it hard,” Pittsburgh coach Dan Muse said. “I think that’s part of their game. They’ve been doing that for a while. … They can make it difficult. I think we got away from things that worked. Part of that is the intensity. Everything is ramped up here in the playoffs.” Pittsburgh’s Evgeni Malkin was a force in Game 1 with a goal and an assist. He has 68 goals and 114 assists in 178 career playoff games. “We played good all year long,” Malkin said. “We know how we play and we just, like, maybe nervous too much or we want (it) too much. We just (weren’t) thinking a little bit, I think.” The Flyers are expecting a crisper overall effort by the Penguins in Sunday’s affair. “We did a good job, but we know they’re going to respond,” Philadelphia captain Sean Couturier said. “We know they’re going to come hard next game. We’ve got to keep respecting their skill and just be prepared.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Flyers #aim #lead #rival #Penguins

Adrien Rabiot boosted AC Milan’s push for a return to the Champions League with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Verona on Sunday, as the side moved back up to second in Serie A.

The France midfielder struck in the 41st minute at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi to hand Milan an eight-point cushion over Como and Roma, placed fifth and sixth respectively.

Rabiot netted his sixth league goal of the season after winning possession in midfield and exchanging passes with Rafael Leao, in what proved to be the decisive moment in an otherwise subdued contest.

Milan took advantage of Como’s surprise defeat to Sassuolo on Friday and Roma’s draw with Atalanta on Saturday. With five matches remaining, the side is well placed to secure a top-four finish.

ALSO READ: Copa del Rey final — Real Sociedad beats Atletico Madrid on penalties to win title

Coach Massimiliano Allegri had said on Friday that he has already begun planning for next season with the club’s management, while ruling himself out of the vacant Italy job.

Verona’s fifth successive defeat leaves it on the brink of relegation. Paolo Sammarco’s side is bottom of the table, 10 points behind Cremonese, which occupies the spot just outside the drop zone after a goalless draw with Torino earlier in the day.

Juventus, currently in the final Champions League spot, can move five points clear of Como and Roma with a home win over Bologna later on Sunday.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#SerieA #Rabiots #strike #helps #Milan #defeat #Verona #moves #table">Serie-A 2025-26: Rabiot’s strike helps AC Milan defeat Verona 1-0, moves up to second in table Adrien Rabiot boosted AC Milan’s push for a return to the Champions League with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Verona on Sunday, as the side moved back up to second in Serie A.The France midfielder struck in the 41st minute at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi to hand Milan an eight-point cushion over Como and Roma, placed fifth and sixth respectively.Rabiot netted his sixth league goal of the season after winning possession in midfield and exchanging passes with Rafael Leao, in what proved to be the decisive moment in an otherwise subdued contest.Milan took advantage of Como’s surprise defeat to Sassuolo on Friday and Roma’s draw with Atalanta on Saturday. With five matches remaining, the side is well placed to secure a top-four finish.ALSO READ: Copa del Rey final — Real Sociedad beats Atletico Madrid on penalties to win titleCoach Massimiliano Allegri had said on Friday that he has already begun planning for next season with the club’s management, while ruling himself out of the vacant Italy job.Verona’s fifth successive defeat leaves it on the brink of relegation. Paolo Sammarco’s side is bottom of the table, 10 points behind Cremonese, which occupies the spot just outside the drop zone after a goalless draw with Torino earlier in the day.Juventus, currently in the final Champions League spot, can move five points clear of Como and Roma with a home win over Bologna later on Sunday.Published on Apr 19, 2026 #SerieA #Rabiots #strike #helps #Milan #defeat #Verona #moves #table

Copa del Rey final — Real Sociedad beats Atletico Madrid on penalties to win title

Coach Massimiliano Allegri had said on Friday that he has already begun planning for next season with the club’s management, while ruling himself out of the vacant Italy job.

Verona’s fifth successive defeat leaves it on the brink of relegation. Paolo Sammarco’s side is bottom of the table, 10 points behind Cremonese, which occupies the spot just outside the drop zone after a goalless draw with Torino earlier in the day.

Juventus, currently in the final Champions League spot, can move five points clear of Como and Roma with a home win over Bologna later on Sunday.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#SerieA #Rabiots #strike #helps #Milan #defeat #Verona #moves #table">Serie-A 2025-26: Rabiot’s strike helps AC Milan defeat Verona 1-0, moves up to second in table

Adrien Rabiot boosted AC Milan’s push for a return to the Champions League with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Verona on Sunday, as the side moved back up to second in Serie A.

The France midfielder struck in the 41st minute at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi to hand Milan an eight-point cushion over Como and Roma, placed fifth and sixth respectively.

Rabiot netted his sixth league goal of the season after winning possession in midfield and exchanging passes with Rafael Leao, in what proved to be the decisive moment in an otherwise subdued contest.

Milan took advantage of Como’s surprise defeat to Sassuolo on Friday and Roma’s draw with Atalanta on Saturday. With five matches remaining, the side is well placed to secure a top-four finish.

ALSO READ: Copa del Rey final — Real Sociedad beats Atletico Madrid on penalties to win title

Coach Massimiliano Allegri had said on Friday that he has already begun planning for next season with the club’s management, while ruling himself out of the vacant Italy job.

Verona’s fifth successive defeat leaves it on the brink of relegation. Paolo Sammarco’s side is bottom of the table, 10 points behind Cremonese, which occupies the spot just outside the drop zone after a goalless draw with Torino earlier in the day.

Juventus, currently in the final Champions League spot, can move five points clear of Como and Roma with a home win over Bologna later on Sunday.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#SerieA #Rabiots #strike #helps #Milan #defeat #Verona #moves #table

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