Rangers Forward Brian Boyle Takes Stick To Groin From Capitals’ Martin Erat (GIF)

All the padding in the world couldn’t protect New York Rangers forward Brian Boyle from what looked like an incredibly painful experience Sunday night.

During the Rangers’ blowout win over the Washington Capitals, Boyle was battling for possession in the corner when he lost his footing and fell on top of the puck. As he sat there, Capitals winger Martin Erat skated over and tried to pry the puck loose — an act that involved shoving his stick between Boyle’s legs.

The second thrust made contact with a particularly sensitive region of Boyle’s body, causing him to howl in pain and resulting in a slashing penalty for Erat. It was just the latest black eye in what has been a miserable first full season in Washington for the 32-year-old, who has yet to score a goal in 41 games.

Check out the penalty in GIF form below, courtesy of SB Nation.