Solar Bears Sneak Past Cyclones in Shootout, 3-2

Solar Bears Sneak Past Cyclones in Shootout, 3-2

ORLANDO, Florida – Despite a remarkable performance from goaltender Rob Madore, the Orlando Solar Bears (27-21-4-2) got past the Cincinnati Cyclones (26-23-1-5) in a shootout by a 3-2 final score in front of 4,509 at Amway Center on Thursday night.

Cincinnati grabbed the early lead thanks to the power play when David MacDonald blasted home his seventh goal of the season from the left point past Garret Sparks (W, 26 saves, 14-6-2-0) at 2:30. At the other end of the ice, Rob Madore (SOL, 53 saves, 11-12-1-4) sparked between the Cincinnati pipes - turning aside all 13 shots he faced in the opening frame to keep his team ahead 1-0 through 20 minutes.

The Solar Bears got on the board for the first time this week at the 8:16 mark of the middle stanza, as Eric Knodel blasted home a point shot past a well-screened Madore to knot things at one. However, the Cincinnati goaltender remained spectacular the rest of the period and kept the game tied at one at the second intermission.

The Cyclones pulled back out in front midway through the third frame when Steven Hodges buried a rebound left in the mid-slot at 9:24. Unfortunately, Knodel would strike again on a power play at the 15:35 mark as he blasted home his second goal of the night from inside the left point. Neither team could find the game-winning strike before regulation ended and the tilt was forced into overtime.

Orlando threatened to end the game early with four shots on goal in the extra session, but came up empty as Rob Madore capped off a season-high 53 save performance. Yet, the game was still deadlocked and would proceed to a shootout. After Denver Manderson found the net in the opening round, Steven Hodges followed in the second with a tally of his own to keep things even. However, Johnny McInnis lit the lamp with a shot over Madore's shoulder in round number four - which turned out to be the game winner as neither squad struck again the rest of the way and Orlando captured the 3-2 victory.

After a rare weekend off, Cincinnati will round out its five-game road trip on Monday night as they once again battle the Orlando Solar Bears at 7:00pm! Fans can hear the action of the game on the Cyclones Radio Network beginning at 6:40pm 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