Fans Suspect Game Rigging After First Overall Pick Calls Out The Officials
In a recent Sabres vs. Rangers game, the referees came under scrutiny for what many believe were unfair and biased calls, causing controversy around the game's outcome.
NHL Referees Face Criticism for Suspected Bias in Sabres vs. Rangers Game
During the first period, Sabres player Erik Johnson called out the refs for a missed call. Later, when he fought with Rangers rookie Willie Cuylle, Johnson received an additional two-minute instigating penalty.
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The penalty angered Johnson, resulting in his ejection from the game. Teammate Jeff Skinner also received a 10-minute penalty in the aftermath.
Johnson Speaks Out On The Refs
In a post-game interview, Johnson continued to express his displeasure. According to him, the referee justified the instigator penalty by citing the Sabres' bench complaints during the first period.
"I don't know if there's a gray area with the instigator or what have you, but that's not an instigator. That's two willing combatants that both accept a fight after what I thought was a hit on my partner, a young player in a vulnerable spot, and he needed to answer the bell for that. I thought it was ridiculous. I'd like to say more, even if I get fined. I really don't care. I thought it was BS." - Erik Johnson
Erik Johnson was still upset when I spoke to him after the OT loss.
According to Johnson, the ref told the Sabres' bench that he was given the instigator penalty because they were complaining too much in the first period.
According to Johnson, the ref told the Sabres' bench that he was given the instigator penalty because they were complaining too much in the first period.
The Rangers secured a 4-3 win, prompting fans to criticize the referees. The incident raises questions about the integrity of the game, and fans are now speculating whether the NHL will launch an investigation into the matter.
As seen on House of Hockey - Referee Exposed for Fixing Game Between the Sabres and Rangers
| POLL | ||
24 DECEMBRE | 123 ANSWERS Fans Suspect Game Rigging After First Overall Pick Calls Out The Officials Did the referees have an effect on the outcome of this game? | ||
| Yes | 100 | 81.3 % |
| No | 23 | 18.7 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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