Before the Orlando Solar Bears could blink, they were down two goals. The uphill climb against the Norfolk Admirals began from the first puck drop in the first period.
Norfolk scored two goals in the first minute of play from Steven Whitney and Braden Christoffer and had control of the game. The Solar Bears, like they have for much of this season would have to climb from behind.
And like they have of late, Orlando has fought back and fought back. Whether the team can complete the deal in the season could be determined by efforts like this.
Orlando tied the game midway through the third period on a goal from Eric Baier after falling behind 3-1 in the first period. The Solar Bears at least secured a road point against the Admirals as they continue their Playoff chase.
Norfolk pulled out the win though in overtime on a Danick Gauthier goal midway through overtime for a 4-3 Orlando loss at Scope Arena.
The Solar Bears scored twice on the power play in the game with Baier recording a goal and an assist to lead the Bears. Rylan Schwartz and Johnny McInnis scored the Solar Bears other two goals.
They scored twice in about 1.5 minutes in the third period to tie the game. This has been the resolve and urgency Orlando has shown more of in recent weeks as the team has recorded at least a point — an overtime loss — in nine of the past 11 games.
The Solar Bears have been charging up the standings quickly and pulled within three points of the final Playoff spot with still some games in hand on the Elmira Jackals. They play Norfolk again Saturday.
