You know it’s your year when a player who gets just four minutes of ice time scores the winning goal in a Stanley Cup Finals game.

Ben Eager’s goal late in the second period just 28 seconds after Marian Hossa scored held up as the game winner in the Hawks’ tense 2-1 win over the Flyers in Game 2 on Monday.

This was one tough win for the Hawks, who had to hang on for dear life in the third period as the Flyers took it to them. Antti Niemi was the difference with 14 saves in the final 20 minutes.

The Flyers are going to be even tougher to beat at home at Wachovia Center for Games 3 and 4 on Wednesday and Friday, but it’s an uphill battle to win the next four of five against the Hawks.

Fasten those chin straps for game 3!

Three stars
1. Antti Niemi: A 32-save performance, with 29 of them coming in the final two periods.
2. Brent Seabrook: Seven hits and 3 blocked shots in 23 minutes.
3. Marian Hossa: His first goal in nine games broke a scoreless tie in the second period.

By the numbers: Teams winning the first two games of the Stanley Cup Finals at home have gone on to win the Cup 31 out of 33 times.

The quote: “Flyers fans never change. They were rude and crude in the ’70s. They’re still rude and crude today.” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette columnist Ron Cook

Blackhawks video — It’s just teeth: After losing seven teeth during the last game of the Western Conference Final with San Jose, Duncan Keith and teammates discuss his current condition  http://bit.ly/dwpkEk

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The family business is hockey, but Bob’s business is mortgages. And he wants you as a client. Reach Bob via email at bbowman@perlmortgage.com or call 847.513.6970.