Cyclones Blank Jackals, 2-0

CINCINNATI, Ohio – A 23-save performance from Rob Madore and a two-point night for Kevin Sullivan highlighted a 2-0 win for the Cincinnati Cyclones (10-10-0-4) over the Elmira Jackals (15-9-0-3) in front of 2,893 at U.S. Bank Arena on Saturday night.

After a scoreless opening period, the Cyclones got on the board first at 10:55 of the middle stanza when Christiaan Minella buried a rebound past Sam Marotta (L, 27 saves, 6-7-0-1) to make it a 1-0 game. And thanks to 13 saves through two periods from Rob Madore (W, 23 saves, 7-6-0-3) at the other end of the ice, Cincinnati held the one-goal cushion after 40 minutes. As the horn sounded to close the period, Elmira's Justin Sawyer cross-checked Branden Gracel in the face during a scrum at the net - for which, Sawyer was given a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct. The Cyclones would capitalize when play resumed in the third.

Exactly 90 seconds into the final frame, Gracel got his revenge by sniping home a laser-accurate shot over Marotta's shoulder - extending Cincinnati's edge to 2-0. From there, Cincinnati's defense buckled down; Madore was electric in the third as well, making 10 of his 23 saves to seal his second shutout of the season. It was the third time overall that the Cyclones have held their opponent off the scoresheet.

After enjoying a holiday break, the Cyclones will hit the road for back-to-back games against the Indy Fuel beginning Friday, December 26 at 7:35pm. Coverage of both tilts can be heard on the Cyclones Radio Network beginning at 7:15pm and seen LIVE via ECHL.TV or at the Game Time Sports Bar and Grill!

The Cyclones will be back on the ice at U.S. Bank Arena on Monday, December 29 when they host the Evansville IceMen at 7:30pm! This game was originally scheduled to be played on Friday, January 23, but had to be moved due to building conflicts. Fans who already have tickets to the January 23 game will be able to use them gain entry on December 29. It will be another Kids Eat FREE Night, where fans ages 2-12 will receive a free meal courtesy of John Morrell! Call 513.421.PUCK to secure your seats and for more details. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the season on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram!

Click here for tonight's box score