PHILADELPHIA – Philip Tomasino’s two goals were crucial in the Nashville Predators’ 4-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center on Thursday, snapping the Flyers’ nine-game point streak. Tomasino, who has faced challenges earlier in the season, demonstrated his scoring prowess, contributing significantly to the Predators’ win.
Tomasino, reflecting on his improved performance, expressed his determination to be a consistent point producer for the team. “I’ve been getting good chances recently, and it’s great to start converting them into goals,” he said.
Alongside Tomasino, Cole Smith and Gustav Nyquist also found the net for Nashville (19-14-0), which has won five of its last six games. Colton Sissons and Filip Forsberg each contributed with two assists, while goalie Juuse Saros made 29 saves. Predators coach Andrew Brunette praised the team’s competitive spirit and execution, noting a significant improvement from their previous game.
The Flyers (18-11-3), despite the loss, have shown impressive form in their recent games, with Morgan Frost and Sean Couturier scoring their goals in this matchup. Goalie Samuel Ersson made 27 saves, but it wasn’t enough to extend their point streak. Frost emphasized the team’s resilience and mental toughness, indicating their readiness to bounce back from this setback.
The game saw a dynamic start with Frost giving the Flyers an early lead. His goal, a fortuitous bounce off Saros’ back, set the tone for an intense match. Smith’s short-handed goal early in the second period brought Nashville level, showcasing their ability to capitalize on counterattacks.
Couturier’s power-play goal momentarily put the Flyers back in the lead, but Tomasino’s equalizer and subsequent go-ahead goal in the third period shifted the momentum in Nashville’s favor. His wrist shot from the left face-off circle at 15:59 of the third was a decisive moment, underlining his growing confidence and skill.
Nyquist’s empty-net goal sealed the win for the Predators, bringing the final score to 4-2. Brunette commended Tomasino’s development and contribution, highlighting his significant role in driving the team’s offense.
Flyers coach John Tortorella acknowledged the challenges faced in the third period, emphasizing the need for simplicity and focus in crucial game moments.
In terms of milestones, Saros’ performance moved him past Tomas Vokoun for second in Predators’ all-time wins, trailing only Pekka Rinne. Nashville’s resilience was also on display, as they have not lost consecutive games since late November.
Sissons reached a career milestone with his 100th NHL assist. For the Flyers, Couturier’s goal ended a concerning power-play drought, and Frost’s early goal marked their sixth within the first two minutes of a game this season, a record they share with the Edmonton Oilers.
This victory for the Predators not only demonstrates their ability to bounce back but also highlights Tomasino’s emerging role as a key offensive player for the team. The Flyers, despite the loss, will look to maintain their overall strong form as they continue their season.
