NHL attempts to explain controversy in Philadelphia

The competency of National Hockey League officiating has come under scrutiny in recent years, with several notable examples of botched calls both on the ice and in the League offices. 

And unfortunately during last night's game at Wells Fargo Center between the host Philadelphia Flyers and visiting Washington Capitals that carried massive playoff implications, the first period was marred by yet another controversy.

A goal by the Flyers was waived off by official Kelly Sutherland after he lost sight of the puck; forward Flyers forward Joel Farabee's shot was stopped by Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren, and deflected up in the air and eventually bounced into the net. 

Understandably, the Flyers (and head coach John Tortorella in particular) didn't exactly agree with the ruling. 

And the NHL has offered the following explanation on the controversy: 

"The Referee informed the Situation Room he blew his whistle to stop play when he lost sight of the puck, before it entered the Washington net," the league said in a statement.

Tortorella was in no mood to talk about the play in his postgame remarks, however.

"Next question, please," Tortorella said when asked. 

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