Amerks Fall to Comets 4-1, Season Series Ends Even

By Christopher Drummond

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester Americans dropped their ninth straight contest against the Utica Comets on Wednesday night, falling 4–1 in the final meeting of the season between the two clubs.

Despite the loss, the season series ended evenly with each team winning five games. The Americans, however, continue to fight to hold onto a playoff position as the season winds down. Both the Belleville Senators and Utica sit within six points of Rochester in the standings, tightening the race for a postseason berth.

The Amerks also looked noticeably different following recent roster moves, including the departures of Nikita Novikov and Isak Rosén via trade.

First Period

Both teams had early opportunities on the power play in the opening period but failed to convert. Utica eventually broke through when Xavier Parent fired a shot past the right shoulder of Rochester goaltender Devon Levi.

The tally marked Parent’s 18th goal of the season and extended his goal-scoring streak to seven consecutive games.

Rochester continued a troubling trend during its recent skid, surrendering the game’s first goal for the eighth time in the last nine games. Despite a 13–13 tie in shots on goal after the opening frame, the Amerks trailed 1–0.

Second Period

Momentum briefly swung in Rochester’s favor early in the second period. After successfully killing off a penalty, the Amerks tied the game when Zac Jones scored his eighth goal of the season. The play was set up by assists from Ryan Johnson and Konsta Helenius — Helenius’ 29th assist and Johnson’s 11th.

Levi kept Rochester in the game with several highlight-reel saves, including multiple breakaway stops that preserved the 1–1 tie.

Utica eventually reclaimed the lead later in the period. Brian Halonen blasted a slapshot past Levi’s shoulder, mirroring Parent’s earlier goal and giving the Comets a 2–1 advantage. The goal was Halonen’s 18th of the season.

Third Period

The Comets controlled the game from there, limiting Rochester’s offensive chances while adding insurance. Matyáš Małovský scored his fourth goal of the season as Utica secured the 4–1 victory.

Coach’s Reaction

Amerks head coach Michael Leone acknowledged the difficulty his team faces during the current stretch.

“Our margin for error is really small for our group,” Leone said. “I don't have any issues with our effort tonight; we just lost the battle. We can't feel bad for ourselves right now because this is where we're at right now with the group we have.”

Leone also addressed the challenges of maintaining continuity amid frequent roster changes.

“We have had 40-plus players in and out of the lineup,” Leone said. “It’s tough, but we have to try to find lines that will work, and other guys are going to have to step up. It’s a good opportunity for individuals to see what they’re capable of.”

Rochester Amerks Ryan Johnson skating through an icingcall early in the second period during Friday's contest against the Utica Comets

Up Next

The Americans will look to rebound Friday night when they host the Toronto Marlies. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Rochester.