The Boston Bruins and the owner of the Washington Capitals are scolding hockey fans who let loose with a burst of racist comments directed at Joel Ward after the black Canadian player scored an overtime goal that won the playoff series for the Capitals late Wednesday.

Soon after, disappointed Boston fans posted their reaction on Twitter, hurling the n-word at Ward.

The Bruins say in a statement that they are disappointed by the insults and, "these classless, ignorant views are in no way a reflection of anyone associated with the Bruins organization."

Capitals owner Ted Leonsis says on his blog: "Shame on these folks who decided to take to their keyboards and show their ignorance and their racism and hate."

- Associated Press