Questionable Goaltender Interference Call Causes Major Controversy In Game 1 Of The Stanley Cup Finals

Tonight begins the highly anticipated rematch between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Finals.

The two teams are as evenly matched as possible and the smallest of margins could determine each game.

In Game 1, major controversy has led to a monumental shift in momentum and on the scoreboard.

In the first period, the Florida Panthers found themselves down by a goal looking to fight back.

Sam Bennett of the Panthers answered the call and put home what looked to be the tying goal.

However, almost immediately, the Edmonton Oilers challenged the call for what appeared to be goaltender interference.

After what felt like an incredibly quick review the call was controversially upheld with the referees claiming that Bennett was tripped.

The failed challenge by the Edmonton Oilers then led to a delay of game penalty which they then had to kill off to keep the game time.

Unfortunately for the Oilers, the Panthers would almost immediately put home a goal and take the lead.

An explanation provided by NHL insider Pierre LeBrun mentions the league's intention to review the goaltender interference rule to make it more clear in the future but for now the controversy still exists.

In response to this drastic swing in momentum fans have taken to social media to flame the referees for what they feel is a bad call.

As the game goes on it will be interesting to see how much the referees insert themselves into the action and control the flow of play.

After the game, all eyes will be on head coach Kris Knoblauch to hear his thoughts on these calls.