Roadrunners Recap: March 27, 2026
Game #62: Tucson Roadrunners (2) vs. Ontario Reign (3)
In a tightly contested matchup, the Tucson Roadrunners saw their recent winning streak halted by the Ontario Reign, falling 3-2 at Tucson Arena. The game was a showcase of special teams, with Ontario capitalizing on their power-play opportunities, scoring twice with the man advantage. Tucson, meanwhile, struggled to convert, going 0-for-6 on power plays.
Key Moments:
- First Period: Ontario’s Martin Chromiak opened the scoring with just five seconds left in the period, taking advantage of a late power play to give the Reign a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission.
- Second Period: Tucson came out strong, with Robbie Russo tying the game just 27 seconds into the period. Jalen Luypen then put the Roadrunners ahead at 5:47.
Despite controlling much of the play and outshooting Ontario 10-4, Tucson couldn’t maintain their lead. Ontario’s Cole Guttman scored in the final minute, leveling the game at 2-2.
- Third Period: Chromiak struck again early in the third, netting the game-winner and putting Ontario back on top. Tucson had their chances, especially during a power play following a high-sticking penalty on Ontario’s Francesco Pinelli, but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Team and Player Highlights:
- The Roadrunners have been dominant in the second period lately, scoring two goals in each of their last three games and outscoring opponents 6-1 during that stretch.
- Scott Perunovich continued his stellar play, recording his 34th assist of the season, just one shy of the franchise record for a defenseman. He’s on a four-game point streak, amassing six points in that span.
- Ben McCartney returned to the lineup and notched his 27th assist of the season, contributing immediately after a month-long absence.
- Robbie Russo extended his point streak to three games with his goal, while Jack Ricketts picked up his fourth assist of the season.
Game Rundown:
- First Period: Both teams came out with playoff intensity. Tucson’s goalie, Jaxson Stauber, made some key early saves.
The Roadrunners had a golden opportunity with a 5-on-3 power play but couldn’t capitalize. Chromiak’s late goal put Ontario ahead.
- Second Period: Tucson dominated early, with Russo and Luypen finding the net. Despite their control, a late power-play goal by Ontario’s Guttman tied things up.
- Third Period: Tucson pressed hard but a quick turnover led to Chromiak’s second goal, putting Ontario in front. The Roadrunners had chances, especially on the power play, but couldn’t break through Ontario’s defense.
Looking Ahead:
The Roadrunners will aim to bounce back as they face Ontario again on Saturday at Tucson Arena. With the playoff race heating up, every game is crucial.
Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. AZT.