For Immediate Release: January 19, 2016
CYCLONES WIN SECOND STRAIGHT IN OVERTIME THRILLER
Cincinnati Takes Season Series From Defending Champs
Allen, TX- The Cincinnati Cyclones (17-15-3-2) collected a 4-3 overtime win over the Allen Americans on Monday afternoon. Forwards Nick Huard, Zach Budish, Tommy Mele, and Branden Gracel netted the goals for the Cyclones, who earn their second straight win.
For the second straight game, the Americans jumped out to a 2-0 first period lead, backed by goals from defenseman David Makowski, and forward Chris Crane.
The Cyclones were not deterred, and with 39 seconds remaining in the opening frame while on the power play, Budish sent a pass to Huard on the back door, and he hammered home the one-timer to cut the Cyclones’ deficit to a goal, 2-1, after 20 minutes.
Cincinnati pulled even with the Americans early in the second, as just 3:56 in, forward Andrew Yogan sent a pass to Budish who launched a shot past Allen netminder Joel Rumpel, tying the game, 2-2.
Cincinnati took the lead midway through the second, when a pass from Huard found Mele who gained a step on a defender and he snapped a shot past Rumpel, putting the Cyclones up, 3-2, on Mele’s 11th of the season, and first as a Cyclone.
The lead was short-lived, as a power play goal from ECHL scoring leader Chad Costello tied the game, 3-3, heading into the second intermission.
After a scoreless third period that saw both teams swap a number of quality scoring chances, the two sides headed into overtime. It didn’t take long for the Cyclones to strike, as 2:29 into the extra session, Gracel skated into the high slot and wristed a shot past Rumpel, sending the Cyclones to a 4-3 overtime win.
The Cyclones outshot Allen, 31-20, while the power play converted at a 25% clip. The Cyclones return home on Friday, when they welcome in the Ft. Wayne Komets for their second straight home game. Faceoff is scheduled for 7:35pm ET.
The 2015-2016 season is underway! Your Cyclones are on the march towards another Kelly Cup Championship, and want you along for the ride! Be sure to check out one of our 2015-16 Ticket Packages, available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), Instagram, and our website, www.cycloneshockey.com!
