ORLANDO, Florida – Another tremendous defensive performance for the Cincinnati Cyclones (26-22-1-4) and a 24-save shutout from Rob Madore helped them defeat the Orlando Solar Bears (26-21-4-2) by a 3-0 final score in front of 5,272 at the Amway Center on Tuesday night.
The Cyclones drew first blood using an early power play when Joe Basaraba caught a perfect pass from Josh Shalla off the half-wall and fired in his ninth goal of the season past Maxime Clermont (L, 27 saves, 6-5-0-1) at 3:45, making it a 1-0 game. All year long, the Cyclones have been among the league's best in terms of shots-against per game - and Tuesday was no different. They surrendered just seven shots in the opening period and held the one goal cushion through 20 minutes.
Cincinnati's defense continued to shine in the middle frame, as they successfully killed an Orlando power play and allowed just seven shots on cage. Cyclones goaltender Rob Madore (W, 24 saves, 11-11-0-3) remained unblemished after two periods as his team carried a 1-0 lead into the second intermission.
Although Orlando amped up the tempo in the final frame, they could not ultimately solve Madore. Thanks to nine third period saves from the Cincinnati net minder, the one-goal margin remained going into the last two minutes. The Solar Bears pulled Clermont in an attempt to find the equalizer, but to no avail as Geoff Irwin and Frederick Gaudreau each potted empty-net lamplighters to seal a 3-0 Cincinnati win.
Cincinnati will continue their week in the Sunshine State tomorrow night when they visit the Florida Everblades at 7:30pm! Fans can hear the action of the game on the Cyclones Radio Network beginning at 7:10pm ET and watch LIVE at the Game Time Sports Bar and Grill in Cheviot.
The Cyclones will be return to U.S. Bank Arena on Friday, March 13 when they welcome in the Orlando Solar Bears at 7:30pm! The first 2,500 fans through the gates will receive a Cyclones Bobblehead featuring Twister! 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
Cyclones Stifle Solar Bears, 3-0
