ring the post

v. In ice hockey, it means to barely miss a goal when a shot eludes the goaltender, yet deflects back into play after hitting either the left or right goalpost. A hard rubber puck shot at high velocity makes a "ringing" sound, much like that of a bell, when it hits the metal goalpost, thus "ring(ing) the post." You can also "ring the crossbar" if a rising shot hits the top bar connecting the goalposts. The goaltender is considered very lucky if he is bailed out by such an event.