The Rochester Americans jumped to an early lead, scoring three times in the first period, but the Cleveland Monsters showed their resilience, overcoming a multi-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 5-4 victory at the Blue Cross Arena on Wednesday night. Despite the loss, Rochester has managed to pick up points in 10 of their last 14 games, maintaining competitive form as they head deeper into the season.
First Period Surge
The Amerks wasted no time setting the tone, with Brendan Warren opening the scoring just over two minutes into the game. A quick breakout led to Kale Clague feeding Warren for his fourth goal of the season. However, the Monsters responded quickly with two goals, briefly taking the lead before Rochester surged back.
Jack Rathbone tied the game with a powerful one-timer, assisted by Ryan Johnson, who was instrumental throughout the game. In the closing seconds of the period, Graham Slaggert capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity, giving the Amerks a 3-2 lead heading into intermission.
Adding to the Lead
Early in the second period, former Monster Josh Dunne extended Rochester’s lead to 4-2 with a skillful finish. The Amerks looked in control, dominating possession and keeping Cleveland on their heels. However, the Monsters clawed their way back late in the frame, cutting the deficit to one with a redirection goal by Luca Del Bel Belluz, his second of the night.
Cleveland’s Comeback
In the final period, the momentum swung fully in Cleveland’s favor. Owen Sillinger tied the game at 4-4 with a deflection in front of Amerks goaltender Devon Levi, who faced 25 shots on the night. Shortly after, Gavin Brindley capitalized on a scramble in front of the net to put the Monsters ahead for good.
Despite a flurry of chances in the closing minutes, including a late power-play opportunity, the Amerks couldn’t find the equalizer. Cleveland goaltender Jet Greaves stood tall, turning aside 37 of 41 shots to seal the win.
Key Performances
Rochester: Jack Rathbone led the charge with a goal and an assist, while Ryan Johnson contributed two assists for his first multi-point game of the season.
Cleveland: Luca Del Bel Belluz paced the Monsters with two goals, while rookie Gavin Brindley added the game-winner.
Special Teams and Goaltending
Neither team found success on the power play, with Rochester going 0-for-6 and Cleveland finishing 0-for-4. The Monsters’ penalty kill was a crucial factor, shutting down all of the Amerks’ opportunities.
Devon Levi made 20 saves in his third appearance of the season, while Jet Greaves‘ stellar play in net earned Cleveland the victory.
Looking Ahead
The Amerks will aim to rebound on Friday, Nov. 29, as they host the Syracuse Crunch in the first half of a home-and-home series. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Fans can tune in to 95.7 FM/950 AM The Fan Rochester or watch live on AHLTV, with a tape delay broadcast on CW Rochester starting at 10 p.m.