Why officials confirmed this controversial Ducks OT goal against Oilers

The Anaheim Ducks have taken a controlling 3-1 series lead over the Edmonton Oilers, but Sunday night's ending was not without controversy.

Game 4 between the Ducks and Oilers was quite the dramatic affair, as Edmonton jumped out to an early 2-0 lead before Anaheim battled back to tie the game. By the end of regulation, the two sides were tied up 3-3 with the game going to overtime to decide the winner. It didn't take long in overtime for controversy to strike, as the Ducks seemingly scored the game-winner off of Ryan Poehling’s shot that deflected off a skate and in between Tristan Jarry's pads less than three minutes in.

The home Anaheim crowd celebrated the goal first, then the Ducks began to circle up in celebration themselves, but no call was made initially on the ice at first. The officials then ruled it a goal on the ice after some deliberation, which then went to a video review to determine the official ruling.

In the end, the officials ruled the goal to be good and the Ducks skated off the ice with a 3-1 series lead. However, every replay shown on the broadcast did not have a clear view of the puck crossing the goal line, as it was covered by Jarry's skate in the overhead camera.

So, why was this called a good goal on the ice by the officials? The fact that the officials first ruled the play a goal certainly helps, as reviews showed no clear evidence to overturn the play. It really is that close of a call and it definitely seems like the puck was over the line even with the skate in the way.

It's a tough break for the Oilers and one that has them on the ropes for sure, but this controversial call is not the reason why the team is on the brink of elimination. Giving up a two-goal lead earlier in the game certainly doesn't help their case.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why controversial Ducks OT goal against Oilers was confirmed