NHL Roundup : Flyers Win, Earn Share of Top Spot

Ilkka Sinisalo and Derrick Smith each had a goal and an assist Friday night at Landover, Md., to lead the Philadelphia Flyers to a 4-2 victory over the Washington Capitals.

The Flyers, after winning games on successive nights, moved into a tie for first place in the Patrick Division with the Capitals. Less than a month ago, the Capitals led the division by 11 points and seemed in command. But now, the Flyers have a game in hand.

The only sour note for the Flyers was an injury to Tim Kerr, their 51-goal scorer, who banged into the boards early in the second period and left with a knee injury. Kerr had a hat trick Thursday night to help the Flyers win in Philadelphia, 9-6. Kerr may miss two games.

Although this one was a defensive battle, it was also a physical battle. At the end of the first period, the teams engaged in a 10-minute fight and referee Andy Van Hellemond assessed 94 minutes in penalties and ejected five players.

The Flyers have dominated the Capitals all season and finished their head-to-head competition with a 5-1-1 record.

Sinisalo, who had two goals Thursday night, opened the scoring less than 2 1/2 minutes after the opening face-off. Six minutes later, he assisted on Smith’s goal and the Capitals could never catch up.

The sweep solidified rookie Coach Mike Keenan’s bid for Coach of the Year honors. In what was supposed to be a rebuilding season, the Flyers have indicated they could be a contender for the Stanley Cup.

“These last two games were good experience for our youngsters,” Keenan said. “These were like playoff games.”

Winnipeg 6, Quebec 3--Dale Hawerchuk had a goal and two assists in a four-goal second period at Winnipeg that led the Jets to a club record 34th victory. The win also clinched a playoff berth.

Buffalo 7, Chicago 2--Lindy Ruff scored twice and linemates Gil Perreault and Mal Davis each scored once at Buffalo as the Jets moved into a tie for first with Montreal in the Adams Division.

Bob Sauve stopped 25 shots for the Sabres.