Toronto Marlies: A Step in the Right Direction Despite Shootout Loss
The Toronto Marlies found themselves in a familiar situation on Saturday in Cleveland, playing strong hockey for much of the game before letting it slip away in the third period. Yet, there was a silver lining: they managed to tie the game late in regulation, ultimately falling 3-2 in a shootout. As John Gruden put it, “We got one point, and we’ll move on from this.”
First Period Insights
The opening frame saw the Marlies fending off two marginal penalties, allowing Cleveland to gain some momentum. Despite these challenges, Toronto's penalty kill was solid, and they nearly scored while shorthanded. Logan Shaw and Marc Johnstone both had breakaway opportunities but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Dennis Hildeby stood tall with a fantastic save against Mikael Pyyhtiä, who broke free following a turnover. The Marlies eventually broke the deadlock thanks to a hardworking play from Bo Groulx, who set up Ryan Tverberg. Tverberg’s drive to the net resulted in a loose puck that Shaw capitalized on, giving Toronto the lead.
Second Period Action
Hildeby had a quieter period but still made crucial saves, maintaining Toronto's edge. The Marlies’ penalty kill continued to be a threat, with Groulx hitting the goaltender’s helmet during a shorthanded rush.
The revamped fourth line was relentless, applying pressure and creating opportunities. Jacob Quillan came close to extending the lead after a dominant shift. Tverberg nearly added another on a rebound, but the Marlies couldn’t capitalize on additional chances, including a late power play.
Third Period Challenges
The final frame saw the Marlies surrender their lead within five minutes. A lapse in coverage allowed Jordan Dumais to score from close range. Toronto had an opportunity to respond when Groulx created a partial breakaway, but the chance slipped away.
Cleveland took advantage of a Toronto icing, with Dumais scoring again to put the Monsters ahead. Despite limited offensive output, the Marlies managed to tie the game late. Pulling Hildeby for an extra attacker paid off as Groulx’s shot led to a scramble, with Quillan ultimately netting the equalizer.
Overtime and Shootout Drama
Overtime presented opportunities for the Marlies, but they couldn’t convert. Fedotov’s impressive save on Tverberg and a squandered power play left the door open for Cleveland. Hildeby’s heroics sent the game to a shootout, where the Marlies fell short, with Cleveland scoring on their first two attempts.
Post-Game Reflections
With 22 games remaining, the Marlies’ playoff hopes hinge on securing 32 more points. Ryan Tverberg continued his strong play with a primary assist, while Jacob Quillan’s late goal could reignite his form. Bo Groulx’s consistent performance, marked by two assists, keeps him among the AHL’s top scorers.
Saturday’s Lineup
Forwards:
Groulx - Shaw - Tverberg
Barbolini - Quillan - Nylander
Paré - Haymes - King
Pezzetta - Johnstone - Baddock
Goaltenders:
Hildeby
Akhtyamov
As the Marlies regroup, they’ll look to build on the positives and tighten up defensively to secure more wins down the stretch.