Hershey Bears v Philadelphia Phantoms, January 31, 1998The Spectrum, Section Z Row 5
Very legit. A minor league sellout isn't rare. But the Spectrum was the former home of the NHL Philadelphia Flyers and held over 17,000. To start the inaugural season the Phantoms dropped a huge black curtain to hide the 2nd and 3rd level, making the lower bowl the only seating option. This made the huge rink seem more intimate and suitable for a minor league team.
Shortly, the team had to raise the curtain a few rows at a time on the upper level as attendance started to take off.
The Phantoms had not lost or tied on home ice since October 20th and the fans appreciated the old Broad Street Bully style of play. That win streak would continue until tonite.
Tonight, the place was legitimately sold out. Over 17,000, no curtains. It was the old Spectrum in all of it's glory. No cookie cutter, sterile arena like the one across the parking lot. Our seats were 5 rows behind the net. A sold out Spectrum for the Phantoms was a better hockey atmosphere then a sold out Wachovia Center for the NHL Flyers today. It just was.
A 5-5 deadlock with the Bears before a sold out house finally ended the Phantoms' home winning streak at a remarkable 19 to best by two the then 59-year old AHL mark of 17 consecutive home victories set by the Cleveland Barons in 1937-38.
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