UTICA, NY – For the second straight game, the Albany Devils erased a two-goal deficit and prevailed in overtime. Matt Lorito was the hero, scoring at 3:06 of the extra frame to give the Devils a 3-2 victory against the Utica Comets Saturday at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.
Box Score
Albany, which defeated Bridgeport in similar fashion last Sunday, extended its winning streak to four games and improved to 30-13-7-0. Utica moved to 25-18-5-3.
The Comets, who have never beaten the Devils in regulation in 12 all-time meetings, jumped out to an early 2-0 advantage. Andrey Padan and Brendan Gaunce had first period tallies at 6:51 and 17:22, respectively.
In the second, Dan Kelly’s career-high fourth goal started Albany’s comeback at 3:08. Minutes later, Mike Sislo netted his career-high 24th tally at 8:15. The play extended Sislo’s goal streak to six games (7g-2a), which is the longest active streak in the AHL. It is also tied for the longest overall streak in the league.
After a scoreless third and after the team’s exchanged chances in overtime, Lorito found himself with the puck at center ice. He slowed up to evaluate the situation and then found another speed, splitting the Utica defense. Alone with Comets’ netminder Joe Cannata, the Devils’ rookie elevated the puck for his first career OT winner.
Yann Danis extended his winning streak to five games thanks to 21 saves. During his most recent run, he has posted a 1.36 goals-against average and a .940 save percentage. Additionally, the veteran goaltender has helped Albany to a point in seven straight appearances.
Cannata made 31 stops.
• The Essentials
Shots: Albany 34, Utica 23
Power Play: Albany 0-6, Utica 1-5
Three Stars: 1. Matt Lorito (ALB), 2. Ronalds Kenins (UTI), 3. Mike Sislo (ALB)
• Next Up
The Devils’ road trip continues with a 5 pm contest against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers Sunday at Webster Bank Arena. Fans can follow the action at ahllive.com.
