NHL Shares Explanation For Dowd’s Disallowed Goal In Capitals-Penguins

The Washington Capitals and Nic Dowd thought they had a tied game in the second period of Tuesday’s tilt against the Pittsburgh Penguins, but a coach’s challenge from coach Mike Sullivan led to an overturned goal.

Dowd had been screening Jarry in front and deflected in a point shot from Garnet Hathaway to make it 3-3 on what appeared to be his second goal of the game. The call on the ice was a good goal. However, after a lengthy conversation between the referees and the situation room in Toronto, the strike was overturned; the officials said there was “no goal” due to goaltender interference.

Officials disallowed this goal due to goalie interference.

Yeah. pic.twitter.com/l9jGHE8whh

— NBC Sports Capitals (@NBCSCapitals) February 2, 2022

Here was the league’s explanation:

“Video review determined Washington’s Nic Dowd had a significant presence in the crease which impaired goaltender Tristan Jarry’s ability to play his position prior to his goal. The decision was made in accordance with Rule 69.1, which states in part, ‘Goals should be disallowed only if: (1) an attacking player, either by his positioning or by contact, impairs the goalkeeper’s ability to move freely within his crease or defend his goal.'”

Looking at the play, Dowd is screening Jarry closely in front and also pushes Dowd forward. However, there doesn’t appear to be a “significant presence” for No. 26 in the crease. In fact, as the puck crosses the line, it appears that Dowd is almost outside of the blue paint entirely.

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Regardless, the call stood, and the Capitals were down 3-2. However, in the final minute of the second, Daniel Sprong would score to make it a great shot that went right under the crossbar. It was a good goal.

The officiating has been strict at PPG Paints Arena for both Washington and Pittsburgh. The game kicked off with five straight special teams goals. The Capitals are 1-for-2 on the power play, and the Penguins are 3-for-5. It remains a 3-3 hockey game in the third period.