Hat-tricks guide Flyers to spiteful win

PHILADELPHIA: Joffrey Lupul and R.J. Umberger both scored hat-tricks to lead the Philadelphia Flyers to an 8-2 rout of the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday.

Lupul registered three goals and three assists and Umberger three goals and two assists as the Flyers ended a five-game losing streak at home. The match was also characterized by several fights, the first of which began after just 20 seconds.

Lupul's effort was the first six-point game by a Flyer since Eric Lindros accomplished the feat in 1997.

The game was actually tied 2-2 after the first period after the Flyers failed to hold onto a 2-0 lead that had been built on Lupul's first two goals.

Umberger then struck twice within two minutes midway through the second period to put the Flyers ahead for good.

Mike Richards added three assists, including his 100th NHL point, and Mike Knuble and Braydon Coburn each had a goal and an assist.

The win gave Philadelphia a 3-0 season series record over their state rivals. Last year, Pittsburgh won all eight games against the Flyers.

Philadelphia goaltender Martin Biron stopped 20 of 22 shots.

Agencies

(China Daily 12/13/2007 page24)