Blackhawks win OT thriller after playoff drought

Per ChicagoTribune.com, an electrified crowd of 22,478 at the United Center helped fuel a 3-2 come-from-behind win for the Chicago Blackhawks over the Calgary Flames. It was the Hawks' first playoff game in seven years.

Martin Havlat's first of two goals came with 5:33 left in regulation to tie the game at 2-2. With only 12 seconds into overtime, Havlat scored his second goal to cinch the Game 1 victory for the Hawks.

Chicagoans share their excitement after last night's game on Twitter:

1. 
   ghettosloth17 :: the Blackhawks winning last night incredible for the fans and the city of Chicago ... keep it going, boys... 17 Apr 2009 from twhirl
2. 
   boxwatcher I'm still pumped after that Blackhawks win last night. It was an amazing atmosphere at the UC. Hope they can build off that win.. 17 Apr 2009 from web
3. 
   bkeeley Good to see the Blackhawks put the last one in the net late last night. Its been 12 years! 17 Apr 2009 from web
4. 
   Chazamm Blackhawks OT Winner!!! Revolution will be televised... Start your playoff beards now... 17 Apr 2009 from web
5. 
   toomanythieves Blackhawks with the steal. keep it up, boys 17 Apr 2009 from web
6. 
   MikeMatusovski Good thing flames lost! Go Chicago Blackhawks!! They deserve a long run. 17 Apr 2009 from Tweetie
7. 
   RyanBeardsley Blackhawks and Bulls in the playoff's at the same time! Someone pinch me! 17 Apr 2009 from web

Fans even noted seeing Chicago Cubs players such as Mike Fontenot at the game:

1. 
   tonyafathead AND, loved seeing Cubs' players @ the Blackhawks game. Made me happy, but Fontenot better not be hungover for todays game! ;) 17 Apr 2009 from TweetDeck
2. 
   scootermacc Hopefully, the entire Cubs team watched the Blackhawks win last night. (>) 17 Apr 2009 from web

Chicago now has a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The next game is on Saturday, April 18 at 8 p.m. CT

Blackhawks win OT thriller after playoff drought