1970 Lost Goal Game vs Chicago Blackhawks

Lore & Background

For Blues fans, this incident became a symbol of near-misses and bad luck during a season that ultimately fell short. The controversy surrounding the play remains a talking point in historical retrospectives, illustrating how a single moment—when Blues defenseman Bob Plager dislodged the net before Bill Goldsworthy's shot crossed the line—can alter the narrative of a playoff series. It underscores the raw, unpolished nature of professional hockey at the time.

In Their Own Story

The air inside The Arena was thick with humidity and cigarette smoke, the roar of the crowd vibrating through the floorboards. In the third period, time seemed to suspend as Hull wound up for his shot. The puck struck the crossbar area, spinning wildly before settling into confusion. Linesmen waved their arms in disagreement while fans held their breath, waiting for a signal that never came.

Reader's Guide

The game unfolded under the bright lights of St Louis, with tensions high following previous playoff battles between these franchises. Early periods saw tight defensive play from both sides, characteristic of the physical style prevalent in the 1970 NHL. As the third period progressed, Chicago applied pressure, seeking a lead to close out the series. The decisive moment arrived when Bobby Hull took a shot that interacted with the goal frame. Due to equipment instability, the puck's position became ambiguous, resulting in no goal being awarded despite visual evidence suggesting otherwise. The atmosphere shifted from anticipation to frustration among Blues supporters, who felt the call impacted the momentum. Chicago capitalized on the confusion and maintained their series advantage. The final minutes were played under a cloud of debate, ending with a result that many fans still question decades later.

Did You Know?

• This incident occurred during the first decade of NHL expansion history.
• Bill Goldsworthy was one of the league's most prolific scorers at the time.
• The goal was allowed even though the net had been dislodged by Blues defenseman Bob Plager before the puck entered.
• The rivalry between St Louis and Minnesota dates back to the 1970s, but is not one of the oldest in hockey.