The Rochester Americans continued their dominant run in the North Division on Friday night, powering past the Utica Comets with a 5–1 win at Blue Cross Arena. The Amerks improved to 22-9-3-0 on the campaign and remain atop the standings, while the Comets (8-18-2-2) departed frustrated after letting an early lead slip away.
First Period: Schmelzer Lifts Comets Early
Utica got off to a confident start when captain Ryan Schmelzer slid home his fifth goal of the season at 7:10 of the opening period. Positioned perfectly in front of the net, he capitalized on a well-timed pass to beat Rochester netminder Devon Levi. The early strike gave the Comets momentum, as they outshot Rochester 14–6 and looked poised to carry a lead into intermission.
However, the Amerks’ penalty kill stiffened when challenged, weathering a double-minor high-sticking call that could have extended Utica’s advantage. Despite taking a 1–0 lead into the locker room, the Comets felt the pushback mounting from Rochester.
Second Period: Wahlberg and Novikov Spark Rochester
The turning point came during the second frame, where Rochester began dictating the pace. At 8:09, Anton Wahlberg lifted a rebound off the initial shot and snapped it into the Utica cage on the power play, tying the game at 1–1. Wahlberg, returning to the Amerks roster after international duty, demonstrated his knack for clutch scoring in critical moments.
Later in the period, the Amerks struck again. This time, defenseman-turned-offensive-threat Nikita Novikov showcased quick hands to slip the puck between the post and goaltender Isaac Poulter at 16:43. Novikov’s fourth goal of the season put Rochester on top, 2–1, a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Despite limited opportunities, the Comets couldn’t contain the Amerks’ skill or keep themselves out of the penalty box, and Utica’s discipline woes soon cost them further.
Third Period: Rosen, Rousek, and Jobst Seal the Deal
Once the final frame began, the Americans wasted little time extending their lead. Just 2:11 into the period, red-hot forward Isak Rosen notched his 14th goal of the campaign when he threaded a shot under Poulter to make it 3–1. Within minutes, Lukas Rousek took advantage of a breakaway, charging in alone and lighting the lamp at 4:18 to stretch the margin to three.
Rochester then cemented the result at 12:42, courtesy of Mason Jobst, who made the most of a five-on-three power-play chance. Jobst’s eighth goal of the season ballooned the score to 5–1, rounding out an explosive night for the Amerks’ offense.
Key Takeaways and Stats
- Five Different Goal Scorers: Schmelzer for Utica, followed by Wahlberg, Novikov, Rosén, Rousek, and Jobst for Rochester, highlighting the Amerks’ balanced attack and Utica’s inability to lock down any one line.
- Dominant Special Teams: Rochester finished 2-for-8 on the power play, showcasing their ability to strike with the man advantage. The Amerks’ penalty kill also remained stout, turning aside all four Comets power-play opportunities.
- Levi Stands Tall: Devon Levi stopped 29 of 30 shots in another steady performance, improving his personal record to 12-2-1. Several early saves, especially during Utica’s double-minor advantage, set the tone for the home team.
- Physical Encounters: Tempers flared frequently, leading to multiple roughing and fighting penalties. While the Comets attempted to shift momentum through physicality, Rochester maintained composure, pulling away on the scoreboard with the power play.
AHL Standings and Outlook
With this latest triumph, the Amerks strengthened their position atop the North Division. Their discipline, balanced scoring, and steady goaltending have fueled a run that now includes 10 wins in the last 11 outings. Meanwhile, the Comets will look to regroup and reclaim the spark they found at the game’s outset.
Up Next for the Amerks
- Saturday, January 11: A trip east to face the Syracuse Crunch at Upstate University Medical Arena.
Rochester fans—and Buffalo Sabres faithful following the organization’s top affiliate—have plenty to be excited about. The Amerks’ relentless attack, stout defense, and strong netminding continue to point toward a promising season and future contributions at the NHL level.
Stay tuned for more coverage, insights, and player features as the Rochester Americans push onward in their quest for AHL supremacy.