The Boston Bruins started to take control in the second period of Tuesday’s game against the Washington Capitals thanks to Vinni Lettieri’s third goal of the season. But it wasn’t just the scoreboard that got the fans up—Jeffrey Viel and Dylan McIlrath went toe to toe and stole the show.
The Epic Fight That Stole the Spotlight
Late in the second period Viel and McIlrath dropped the gloves for a big time fight that had everyone at TD Garden going wild. Both skaters were punching with their helmets on but McIlrath got the early jump by ripping off Viel’s helmet. Despite losing his lid Viel didn’t back down—he got his helmet back on and landed a good shot.
The fight lasted about a minute before both players slowed down and the refs stepped in. Head ref Wes McCauley made the call: “Five minutes for fighting!” The crowd erupted in cheers. They loved the old school hockey.
How the Fight Energized the Bruins?
Viel’s energy spread to his teammates right away. Just a minute later David Pastrnak tied it up 2-2 with a power play goal – his 36th of the season. The goal got the Bruins bench even more pumped up and sometimes a little bit of physicality can go a long way in turning a game around.
Who is Jeffrey Viel?
This wasn’t Viel’s first time dropping the gloves in a Bruins uniform. He did it in his debut on November 18 against the Columbus Blue Jackets’ Mathieu Olivier. Tuesday was his 5th game with the Bruins this season, and while he’s still looking for his first point with the Spoked-B, he’s already earned respect from teammates and fans.
Before joining the Bruins, Viel played with the San Jose Sharks, where he had 3 goals and 2 assists in 53 games. He may not be lighting up the scoreboard yet, but his willingness to stand up for his team and deliver moments like Tuesday’s fight shows why he’s a good addition to the roster.
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