The Orlando Solar Bears fell to the Manchester Monarchs 3-1 at Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, N.H., on Saturday.
The Solar Bears fell behind 3-0 and were generally taken out of their game following Friday’s overtime win. They tallied just 13 shots through two periods, creating few offensive opportunities against one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference.
Mark Anthoine scored twice, once in the second and once in the third period, to seal the Moncarchs’ 3-0 lead. Manchester scored once in each period.
Orlando finally got on the board with about 3.5 minutes to play, when Branden Miller scored his second goal on a power play goal assisted by Patrick Watling and Jack Rodewald. It is good to see Watling and Rodewald get their chemistry back after Watling missed so much time this season.
Time is running out though for the Solar Bears and they know it if they want to get into the Playoffs. This weekend represented a tough challenge and they already have two points in their pocket. Sunday’s finale is a big one though. It would be nice for the Solar Bears at least to split the points and get to overtime.
Of course a win would be really nice too.
Rob Madore made 30 saves on 33 shots in Saturday’s game. He had 36 saves on 38 shots in Friday’s win. Rookie Ryan Massa is likely to get the call in net for Sunday’s finale. It does seem the Solar Bears are turning toward the veteran to hold off teams and get back into the Playoff conversation.
Orlando is certainly under the gun and need all the points they can get. Manchester though is a tough opponent that clearly flexed its muscle Saturday.
