Before tonight's match, the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh had won two meetings each in the series, and it was only in overtime that the Islanders could add another point.
Josh Bailey made the Islanders decisive 3-2 with less than a minute played in the second overtime period.
Bailey got the puck served by Pittsburgh goalkeeper Tristan Jarry, who hit a foul in his own zone and in free position, 31-year-old Bailey made no mistake.
- I wanted to get a good shot, but time ran out and I just shot the puck away.
Fortunately, it went in, he says during the press conference after the match.
"Outstanding goalkeeper game"
Ilja Sorokin, who played great in the New York goal with as many as 48 saved pucks, is praised by her teammates.
- We could not have done it without Ilja.
His fantastic saves kept us in the game.
An incredible effort and crucial for us to win, says Anthony Beauvillier who is supported by, among others, coach Barry Trotz.
- Outstanding!
I sign all the praise you want to use to describe him.
We would not have had a chance in this match if he had not been outstanding, says Trotz.
Islanders Oliver Wahlstrom left the ice at the end of the third after being tackled by Pittsburgh's Mike Matheson.
Trotz could not answer his injury situation or when he is expected to be able to play again.
The teams will meet next night towards Thursday, when the Islanders thus have a chance to decide the series at home.
The winner of the series will face Boston in the quarterfinals.