63 years ago today (three score and three?), Bill Barilko scored the Cup-winning goal in the 1951 Stanley Cup Final. It was an OT goal against Habs goalie Gerry McNeil and was captured on this card. Barilko, of course, died that summer in a plane crash, so this card was the only instance of Bill on cardboard until the early 1990s when everyone and everything was put on hockey cards (even the puck got its own card in 1990-91 Pro Set).
The 1951 Final was notable because all five games went into OT. Barilko was also somewhat lucky because he wound up on his belly after this play and had that puck gone wide, the Richard line was on the ice and he was completely out of position.
Somewhat forgotten in the Barilko legend is that the only reason Game 5 was even in overtime was the last minute heroics of Tod Sloan, who scored with the goalie pulled at 19:28 of the third period to tie things at two apiece.
So here’s to the 63rd anniversary of Tod Sloan’s heroics, completely forgotten and never the subject of a Tragically Hip song. 🙂
Diamond Cuts and Wax Stains 
First off, I am always jealous when I see some amazing Parkies that you have! Those two are in fantastic shape.
Second, very cool post. I definitely didn’t know much about the events prior to Bill’s goal so thank you very much for the lesson.
Thanks! This was the benefit of collecting during the late 80s. 🙂
I have many that are rancid. I just don’t scan those ones as often.
Shoot me an email. I have tons of 70’s Topps hockey. Would love to make a trade for some o pee chee stuff. Markhoyle913ATyahooDOTcom. Thanks. Love the hockey card blogs