Washington 3, Calgary 2

WASHINGTON, March 6 (UPI) -- Sergei Gonchar snapped a third-period tie with a blistering slap shot Wednesday night as the Washington Capitals edged the Calgary Flames, 3-2.

With 2:04 remaining, Gonchar's 21st goal of the season was a blast from just inside the blue line. Steve Konowalchuk drew the defense to the left faceoff circle and shoveled a pass back to Gonchar, who beat Calgary goaltender Roman Turek to the top left corner.

Washington improved to 5-1-1 in its last seven home games against Calgary while the Flames had a four-game unbeaten streak snapped.

Jarome Iginla recorded his league-leading 40th goal of the season for Calgary.