Jackals Shutout By Cyclones, 2-0

CINCINNATI, OH - The Jackals entered the night searching for a three-game sweep on the road, but were thwarted by Rob Madore, who stopped 23 shots and shutout the Jackals 2-0.
Neither team could break through in the opening period, with seven shots apiece directed on net. However, the first 20 minutes did not lack excitement. At 8:01 of the frame, Mike Bergin challenged Christiaan Minella and landed some hard body shots in the tussle.

The scoreless tie lasted over 30 minutes until Minella deposited the loose puck past Marotta to give Cincinnati the lead at 10:55 of the period. Marotta got a piece of the puck following a scrum in front, but couldn't get all of Minella's shot. The Jackals upped the pressure, but were turned aside each time. As the final seconds of the period ticked off the clock another scrum ensued and tempers flared. Justin Sawyer was assessed a match penalty for an illegal check to the head, which resulted in a five minor penalty kill for the Jackals to begin the third period.

The Cyclones were able to extend their lead to two with a power-play tally 1:30 into the third period. Branden Gracel took a slapshot from the top of the left circle and powered it past Marotta for his fifth goal of the season. The Jackals killed off the remainder of the penalty kill but could not solve Madore. Spencer McAvoy was hit hard by Minella at 12:03 of the period and engaged Minella in a fight.

The Jackals finished 0-for-2 on the power-play and Cincinnati went 1-for-3 with the man advantage.

The ZOOperstars! will be in town on December 26th when the Jackals return to First Arena to take on the East Division rival Reading Royals at 7:05 p.m. EST.