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EXCLUSIVE — ISL 2025-26: Ashley Westwood, the wizard of Bengaluru FC, eyes similar magic at Kerala Blasters  Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells        Sportstar in an exclusive interview. Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                K. MURALI KUMAR
                            

                            Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                K. MURALI KUMAR
                                                    
Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:

Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters

Total matches: 89

Wins: 46

Losses: 26

Draws: 17

Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)
But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the        Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers? Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”Winds of change at Kerala BlastersThere have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.
Kerala Blasters’ remai

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 14

Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18

Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23

Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10

Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23
Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they are. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.Published on Apr 14, 2026  #EXCLUSIVE #ISL #Ashley #Westwood #wizard #Bengaluru #eyes #similar #magic #Kerala #Blasters

EXCLUSIVE — ISL 2025-26: Ashley Westwood, the wizard of Bengaluru FC, eyes similar magic at Kerala Blasters

Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.

He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.

Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).

“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells Sportstar in an exclusive interview.

EXCLUSIVE — ISL 2025-26: Ashley Westwood, the wizard of Bengaluru FC, eyes similar magic at Kerala Blasters  Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells        Sportstar in an exclusive interview. Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                K. MURALI KUMAR
                            

                            Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                K. MURALI KUMAR
                                                    
Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:

Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters

Total matches: 89

Wins: 46

Losses: 26

Draws: 17

Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)
But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the        Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers? Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”Winds of change at Kerala BlastersThere have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.
Kerala Blasters’ remai

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 14

Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18

Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23

Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10

Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23
Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they are. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.Published on Apr 14, 2026  #EXCLUSIVE #ISL #Ashley #Westwood #wizard #Bengaluru #eyes #similar #magic #Kerala #Blasters

Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR

lightbox-info

Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence. | Photo Credit: K. MURALI KUMAR

Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:

Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters

Total matches: 89

Wins: 46

Losses: 26

Draws: 17

Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)

But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.

The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.

“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.

“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”

Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.

“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.

The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers?

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

lightbox-info

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.

In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.

So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?

“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.

“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”

It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.

“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”

Winds of change at Kerala Blasters

There have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.

“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.

But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.

Kerala Blasters’ remai

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 14

Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18

Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23

Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10

Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23

Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.

“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they are. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.

Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#EXCLUSIVE #ISL #Ashley #Westwood #wizard #Bengaluru #eyes #similar #magic #Kerala #Blasters

Ashley Westwood is no stranger to Indian football.

He guided Bengaluru FC to the then top-flight title in his and the club’s first season in Indian professional football and won three trophies with the club, becoming a legend among its faithful.

Last month, the former Manchester United academy graduate returned to coaching duties in Indian football after four years, taking charge of Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL).

“I was here from the start of the ISL when it was only a six-week league… and now it has developed into an eight to 10-month league. So, I’ve seen it all. It has had a tough time this last year. But like anything, it’s a work in progress, a process,” Westwood tells Sportstar in an exclusive interview.

Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
| Photo Credit:
K. MURALI KUMAR

lightbox-info

Ashley Westwood’s success at Bengaluru FC wasn’t just about results, but two I-League titles and a Federation Cup gave it weight and permanence.
| Photo Credit:
K. MURALI KUMAR

Ashley Westwood’s record in Indian football:

Teams managed: Bengaluru FC, ATK, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters

Total matches: 89

Wins: 46

Losses: 26

Draws: 17

Trophies: I-League x2 (2013-14, 2015-2016), Federation Cup (2014-15)

But unlike Bengaluru, he finds himself in a precarious position at Kerala Blasters.

The three-time ISL finalist has struggled for form this season, and with no wins in six matches, the Blasters parted ways with head coach David Catala, while their fan club, the Manjappada, boycotted matches citing mismanagement.

“Football is challenging anyway. Sometimes you get fortunate, and you go into a club mid-season because a coach has done well, and you take over a team at the top of the league, but that’s very rare,” Westwood says.

“Normally, if you go into a club halfway through a season, it’s because they’re not doing very well, because a manager has lost his job. Of course, with Bengaluru, it was a brand-new club. So, any challenge is good.”

Westwood opened his Blasters stint on a forgettable note, losing 0-2 to the newly formed Sporting Club Delhi. However, he found the perfect opportunity to respond against Bengaluru FC in the match that followed, which the Blasters won for their first victory of the season.

“I enjoy challenges. There’s lots of improvement to come, hopefully, and maybe we can do that. I’ve done it before in all the roles I’ve been in. So, I’m hoping to do the same again. Let’s see if we can keep improving things,” he says.

The Achilles heel of the Blue Tigers?

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to  Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

lightbox-info

Team Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood (R) talks to Matthew Elliot Wing Kai Orr of Hong Kong (L) during the Asian Cup qualifier Group C match at Kai Tak Stadium on November 18, 2025, in Hong Kong, China.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

There’s another side to Westwood beyond domestic football. He has managed two Asian sides, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Both pulled off significant upsets against India.

In 2024, India lost to Afghanistan on home soil for the second time ever, which turned out to be one of the last matches under coach Igor Stimac. A year later, Hong Kong beat India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier. Manolo Marquez, who had stepped into Stimac’s shoes, parted ways shortly after.

So, is the Englishman a nemesis for India’s coaches?

“No, it’s certainly not a personal thing. Coincidence happens in football. With me, I try to win every game, whoever it is,” Westwood says.

“Predominantly, my record shows that I do win quite a few games, and unfortunately, a few of them have been against India. I don’t look at it as a scalp; I look at it as a game of football, and one that we won.”

It was no surprise that Westwood was among the names circulating in Indian football circles as a potential coach of the Blue Tigers, first after Stimac and then after Marquez.

“It’s (the question has) come around a lot of times. I’ve been close a lot of times. It hasn’t happened. I won’t comment on that particular job where they have a manager, of course,” he says. “But regardless of the job, I’ll concentrate on what I need to do, which is improve Kerala Blasters.”

Winds of change at Kerala Blasters

There have been signs of optimism in the Blasters camp since his arrival. They have signed former Real Madrid Castilla winger Franchu, who scored the winner on his ISL debut against Bengaluru FC.

“Hopefully, this carries on. It’s simple: you give everything in a relationship and, normally, you get it back. Football has a unique way of taking care of you if you take care of your work rate. That’s all we’re trying to do,” Westwood says.

But the tactician will know that slip-ups could cost the team heavily, especially in a truncated season where each team plays each other just once.

Kerala Blasters’ remai

Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United — April 14

Kerala Blasters vs Jamshedpur FC — April 18

Kerala Blasters vs Odisha FC — April 23

Kerala Blasters vs Mohammedan Sporting — May 10

Kerala Blasters vs FC Goa — May 23

Despite the win, the Blasters remain second from bottom, and losses from here, especially against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting, could see the club struggle to stay afloat in the top flight this season.

“We won’t be in a relegation dogfight. That’s my belief, not an expectation. I’m confident in myself. . . There’s definitely an area for us to improve and get some wins. So, I’m not concerned about where they are. I’m just trying to look at where we might finish,” he says.

Bengaluru FC earned a place in Indian football discussions in its maiden season under Westwood. The Blasters, who had slipped out of that discourse with underwhelming results, will look to tread a similar path under the same man in the dugout.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

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#EXCLUSIVE #ISL #Ashley #Westwood #wizard #Bengaluru #eyes #similar #magic #Kerala #Blasters

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Deadspin | Flyers nip ‘Canes in shootout, clinch first playoff berth in 6 years <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28722493.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28722493.jpg" alt="NHL: Carolina Hurricanes at Philadelphia Flyers" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 13, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers center Trevor Zegras (46) controls the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first period at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Tyson Foerster scored the only goal of a four-round shootout, giving host Philadelphia a 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Carolina Hurricanes on Monday and sending the Flyers to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Matvei Michkov and Trevor Zegras scored in regulation for Philadelphia (42-27-12, 96 points), which wrapped up third place in the Metropolitan Division. Dan Vladar stopped 24 shots and wasn’t beaten on any of Carolina’s shootout attempts as the Flyers won for the fifth time in six games.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The Flyers will open the postseason with a series against the rival Pittsburgh Penguins.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Nikolaj Ehlers had a goal and an assist and Bradly Nadeau also tallied for the Hurricanes (52-22-7, 111 points), who clinched the top spot in the Eastern Conference with the point despite the loss. Brandon Bussi made 21 saves as Carolina fell to 6-1-1 in the past eight games.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>The contest was the penultimate game of the regular season for both teams.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Carolina’s Jackson Blake hit the goalpost while cutting across the slot about 1:15 into the five-minute overtime period.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>Philadelphia scored twice in the second period to tie the game 2-2.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Michkov put the Flyers on the board 7:57 into the period when he scored from the left circle skating toward the net after taking a cross-ice pass from Denver Barkey.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>A power-play goal with 9:29 left in the middle period tied it. Zegras took a pass below the right circle, had the time to take a couple of strides to his left and put a shot past Bussi. Porter Martone assisted on the goal to stretch his point streak to five games (three goals, four assists).</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Nadeau scored 8:41 into the game. He connected on a one-timer from the slot, converting Ehlers’ pass from behind the net. Ehlers’ power-play goal with 4:30 left in the opening period made it 2-0. The shot from below the right circle and along the goal line caromed in off of Vladar.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Ehlers’ 25th goal came 25 seconds after Christian Dvorak went off for holding.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>The win by Philadelphia eliminated the Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets from the playoff contention. Those two teams battle in Columbus in a meaningless game on Tuesday.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>The Hurricanes rested Sebastian Aho, Seth Jarvis, captain Jordan Staal, Andrei Svechnikov and defensemen Jaccob Slavin and Shayne Gostisbehere in anticipation of the upcoming playoffs.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-14"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Flyers #nip #Canes #shootout #clinch #playoff #berth #years

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Deadspin | Golden Knights snag division edge with victory over Jets <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28723707.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28723707.jpg" alt="NHL: Winnipeg Jets at Vegas Golden Knights" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 13, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Brayden Yager (29) eyes a loose puck in front of Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mitch Marner (93) during the first period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Jack Eichel scored a goal and had three assists and Mark Stone added a goal and two assists as the Vegas Golden Knights moved a step closer toward a Pacific Division title with a 6-2 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Monday in Las Vegas.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>It was the fourth four-point game of the season for Eichel.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Ivan Barbashev and Rasmus Andersson each had a goal and an assist, Noah Hanifin had two assists and Reilly Smith and Pavel Dorofeyev also scored for Vegas (38-26-17, 93 points), which moved two points ahead of the second-place Edmonton Oilers and three points in front of the third-place Anaheim Ducks.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Carter Hart made 21 saves for the Golden Knights, who improved to 6-0-1 since John Tortorella replaced Bruce Cassidy as head coach on March 29. The win also extended the team’s point streak to a season-high nine games (6-0-3).</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Mark Scheifele and Gabriel Vilardi each had a goal and an assist and Connor Hellebuyck finished with 32 saves for Winnipeg (35-33-12, 82 points), which was eliminated from Stanley Cup playoff race during the game when the Los Angeles Kings secured the final Western Conference playoff spot with a 5-3 win over the Seattle Kraken.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Vegas took a 1-0 lead at the 7:38 mark of the second period on Stone’s 10th career short-handed goal. The score came at the end of a 2-on-1 rush that saw Eichel steal the puck near his own blue line and then make a crossing pass to Stone on the edge of the left circle. Stone one-timed a shot five-hole that squirted through Hellebuyck’s pads and slowly trickled over the goal line for his fifth goal in the past five games.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>The Golden Knights extended the lead to 2-0 near the end of the period when Smith, stationed in the slot, redirected Hanifin’s shot from the left point past Hellebuyck’s glove side.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Barbashev made it 3-0 just 31 seconds into the third period, roofing a shot inside the right post off a no-look, behind-the net pass from Eichel.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Vilardi answered with a power-play goal on a deflection of a Colin Miller point shot at 2:34. Vilardi hit the 30-goal mark for the first time in his seven-season career.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Sixty-three seconds later, Andersson then made it 4-1 when he ripped a wrist shot from the right circle past Hellebuyck’s glove side.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Scheifele, who hit the 100-point mark with an assist on Vilardi’s goal, cut the deficit to 4-2 when he put in a rebound of a Kyle Connor shot at 4:41.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>The Golden Knights broke the game open with a pair of power-play goals after Scheifele picked up a double-minor for drawing blood on a high-sticking penalty on Andersson.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Dorofeyev got the first, his team-leading 37th goal and the 20th on the power play, at 5:42. Eichel followed when he scooped up a loose puck in the low slot and roofed a wrist shot into the top far right corner at 7:38 for his first power-play goal of the season.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-14"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Golden #Knights #snag #division #edge #victory #Jets

Ronnie O’Sullivan will face Chinese debutant He Guoqiang when he begins his bid to win an eighth World Snooker Championship title on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old beat world number 18 Jack Lisowski in qualifying for the showpiece event at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, northern England, and has defeated O’Sullivan in two of their three previous career meetings.

O’Sullivan, a 50-year-old Englishman, is looking to take sole possession of a modern-day record of seven world titles he currently shares with the retired Stephen Hendry of Scotland.

Guoqiang is one of a record 11 Chinese players in the tournament, a sign of how the country has become a force in snooker, a sport traditionally dominated by players from Britain and Ireland.

The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.

Two of the first-round ties are all-Chinese encounters, with Xiao Guodong taking on Zhou Yuelong and Wu Yize playing Lei Peifan.

O’Sullivan begins bid for record-breaking World Snooker Championship title against Chinese debutant Guoqiang  Ronnie O’Sullivan will face Chinese debutant He Guoqiang when he begins his bid to win an eighth World Snooker Championship title on Tuesday.The 25-year-old beat world number 18 Jack Lisowski in qualifying for the showpiece event at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, northern England, and has defeated O’Sullivan in two of their three previous career meetings.O’Sullivan, a 50-year-old Englishman, is looking to take sole possession of a modern-day record of seven world titles he currently shares with the retired Stephen Hendry of Scotland.Guoqiang is one of a record 11 Chinese players in the tournament, a sign of how the country has become a force in snooker, a sport traditionally dominated by players from Britain and Ireland.The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.Two of the first-round ties are all-Chinese encounters, with Xiao Guodong taking on Zhou Yuelong and Wu Yize playing Lei Peifan. The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    Four-time world champion John Higgins faces two-time runner-up Ali Carter, with the winner potentially taking on O’Sullivan in the second round.Mark Selby, another four-time world champion, starts against shock 2024 finalist Jak Jones.Antoni Kowalski, the first Polish player to qualify for the Crucible, is up against three-time champion Mark Williams.The tournament starts on Saturday, with Zhao’s match against Highfield, while Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen faces China’s Zhang Anda on the other table.England’s Joe Davis won fifteen consecutive world titles between 1927 and 1946, but many of those successes came in challenge matches.The record in the modern era is usually dated from the reintroduction of a knock-out tournament in 1969.Published on Apr 16, 2026  #OSullivan #begins #bid #recordbreaking #World #Snooker #Championship #title #Chinese #debutant #Guoqiang

The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

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The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Four-time world champion John Higgins faces two-time runner-up Ali Carter, with the winner potentially taking on O’Sullivan in the second round.

Mark Selby, another four-time world champion, starts against shock 2024 finalist Jak Jones.

Antoni Kowalski, the first Polish player to qualify for the Crucible, is up against three-time champion Mark Williams.

The tournament starts on Saturday, with Zhao’s match against Highfield, while Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen faces China’s Zhang Anda on the other table.

England’s Joe Davis won fifteen consecutive world titles between 1927 and 1946, but many of those successes came in challenge matches.

The record in the modern era is usually dated from the reintroduction of a knock-out tournament in 1969.

Published on Apr 16, 2026

#OSullivan #begins #bid #recordbreaking #World #Snooker #Championship #title #Chinese #debutant #Guoqiang">O’Sullivan begins bid for record-breaking World Snooker Championship title against Chinese debutant Guoqiang  Ronnie O’Sullivan will face Chinese debutant He Guoqiang when he begins his bid to win an eighth World Snooker Championship title on Tuesday.The 25-year-old beat world number 18 Jack Lisowski in qualifying for the showpiece event at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, northern England, and has defeated O’Sullivan in two of their three previous career meetings.O’Sullivan, a 50-year-old Englishman, is looking to take sole possession of a modern-day record of seven world titles he currently shares with the retired Stephen Hendry of Scotland.Guoqiang is one of a record 11 Chinese players in the tournament, a sign of how the country has become a force in snooker, a sport traditionally dominated by players from Britain and Ireland.The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.Two of the first-round ties are all-Chinese encounters, with Xiao Guodong taking on Zhou Yuelong and Wu Yize playing Lei Peifan. The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            The China contingent includes reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match on Saturday.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    Four-time world champion John Higgins faces two-time runner-up Ali Carter, with the winner potentially taking on O’Sullivan in the second round.Mark Selby, another four-time world champion, starts against shock 2024 finalist Jak Jones.Antoni Kowalski, the first Polish player to qualify for the Crucible, is up against three-time champion Mark Williams.The tournament starts on Saturday, with Zhao’s match against Highfield, while Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen faces China’s Zhang Anda on the other table.England’s Joe Davis won fifteen consecutive world titles between 1927 and 1946, but many of those successes came in challenge matches.The record in the modern era is usually dated from the reintroduction of a knock-out tournament in 1969.Published on Apr 16, 2026  #OSullivan #begins #bid #recordbreaking #World #Snooker #Championship #title #Chinese #debutant #Guoqiang

Deadspin | Padres C Freddy Fermin hit by foul ball but avoids concussion  Apr 15, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres catcher Freddy Fermin, center, leaves the game next to manager Craig Stammen, left, and a trainer during the third inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. All MLB players are wearing number 42 today to honor Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images   San Diego catcher Freddy Fermin left the Padres’ Wednesday game against the visiting Seattle Mariners in the top of the third inning after taking a second foul ball off his mask.  “Took him back, tested him, no concussion stuff going on, but just a head contusion,” San Diego manager Craig Stammen said postgame. “It just feels like he got hit in the head. Luckily it’s not a concussion at this point. All the tests came back negative.”  After getting struck with a foul ball in the second inning, Fermin was hit directly between the eyes when Brendan Donovan, leading off the Seattle third, fouled off a 1-1 pitch from Randy Vasquez.  Fermin went to his knees after getting hit. After the team’s training staff and Stammen came out to consult with Fermin, the catcher walked off the field.   Luis Campusano replaced Fermin, who hadn’t batted in the first two innings. Fermin is hitting .161 with no homers and two RBIs in 15 games.  At the time of Fermin’s departure, Seattle led 2-0. The Mariners were up by four before the Padres scored five runs in the bottom of the ninth for a 7-6 victory.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Padres #Freddy #Fermin #hit #foul #ball #avoids #concussionApr 15, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres catcher Freddy Fermin, center, leaves the game next to manager Craig Stammen, left, and a trainer during the third inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. All MLB players are wearing number 42 today to honor Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

San Diego catcher Freddy Fermin left the Padres’ Wednesday game against the visiting Seattle Mariners in the top of the third inning after taking a second foul ball off his mask.

“Took him back, tested him, no concussion stuff going on, but just a head contusion,” San Diego manager Craig Stammen said postgame. “It just feels like he got hit in the head. Luckily it’s not a concussion at this point. All the tests came back negative.”

After getting struck with a foul ball in the second inning, Fermin was hit directly between the eyes when Brendan Donovan, leading off the Seattle third, fouled off a 1-1 pitch from Randy Vasquez.


Fermin went to his knees after getting hit. After the team’s training staff and Stammen came out to consult with Fermin, the catcher walked off the field.

Luis Campusano replaced Fermin, who hadn’t batted in the first two innings. Fermin is hitting .161 with no homers and two RBIs in 15 games.

At the time of Fermin’s departure, Seattle led 2-0. The Mariners were up by four before the Padres scored five runs in the bottom of the ninth for a 7-6 victory.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Padres #Freddy #Fermin #hit #foul #ball #avoids #concussion">Deadspin | Padres C Freddy Fermin hit by foul ball but avoids concussion  Apr 15, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres catcher Freddy Fermin, center, leaves the game next to manager Craig Stammen, left, and a trainer during the third inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. All MLB players are wearing number 42 today to honor Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images   San Diego catcher Freddy Fermin left the Padres’ Wednesday game against the visiting Seattle Mariners in the top of the third inning after taking a second foul ball off his mask.  “Took him back, tested him, no concussion stuff going on, but just a head contusion,” San Diego manager Craig Stammen said postgame. “It just feels like he got hit in the head. Luckily it’s not a concussion at this point. All the tests came back negative.”  After getting struck with a foul ball in the second inning, Fermin was hit directly between the eyes when Brendan Donovan, leading off the Seattle third, fouled off a 1-1 pitch from Randy Vasquez.  Fermin went to his knees after getting hit. After the team’s training staff and Stammen came out to consult with Fermin, the catcher walked off the field.   Luis Campusano replaced Fermin, who hadn’t batted in the first two innings. Fermin is hitting .161 with no homers and two RBIs in 15 games.  At the time of Fermin’s departure, Seattle led 2-0. The Mariners were up by four before the Padres scored five runs in the bottom of the ninth for a 7-6 victory.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Padres #Freddy #Fermin #hit #foul #ball #avoids #concussion

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