Amerks Shut Out Comets in Commanding Home Victory

By Christopher Drummond

Rochester, N.Y. — The Rochester Americans recorded a decisive 3–0 victory over the Utica Comets on Friday night at Blue Cross Arena, extending their strong recent form and opening their six-game homestand with an emphatic performance. The win marked Rochester’s third victory in its last four contests and showcased a disciplined defensive effort supported by standout goaltending.

Following a fast-paced opening period, Rochester opened the scoring when defenseman Nikita Novikov netted his sixth goal of the season. The goal was assisted by Riley Fiddler-Schultz, who recorded his 12th assist, and Aiden Fulp, who earned his first assist of the season in just his third game of action. Rochester later received a power-play opportunity after Utica’s Dmitri Osipov was assessed a tripping penalty, though the Americans were unable to convert and carried a 1–0 lead into the first intermission.

Despite being assessed three penalties in the second period, Rochester’s penalty kill proved effective, limiting Utica’s scoring chances. The Comets increased their offensive pressure and shot volume, but goaltender Devon Levi turned aside every attempt. Rochester capitalized late in the period when AHL All-Star Isak Rosen scored his 19th goal of the season on an unassisted effort, extending the lead to 2–0.

The Americans maintained control in the third period, continuing to neutralize Utica’s offensive push. Ryan Johnson added an insurance goal—his fourth of the season—with assists from Viktor Neuchek and Trevor Kuntar, whose helpers marked their 10th and ninth assists respectively. Utica later pulled its goaltender in an attempt to gain a man advantage, but the strategy failed to yield a goal.

Utica finished the contest with more shots on goal, yet was unable to break through Rochester’s structured defensive coverage and Levi's steady presence in net. Levi finished the night with approximately 27 saves, earning the shutout.

Head coach Michael Leone credited his team’s resilience and preparation, particularly in limiting Utica’s transition game.

“When you have character kids—guys that work really hard no matter who’s up or down—that’s a great example of character,” Leone said. “They’re a very skilled team that can hurt you off the rush. Our focus was on minimizing odd-man rushes, and I thought we did a good job of that.”

Levi echoed that sentiment, highlighting the collective defensive effort.

“They played a great game all the way throughout,” Levi

said. “Two goals from our defensemen is pretty good, too. The forwards played well, and overall we really played a great game.”

Rochester will look to build on the momentum Saturday evening when it continues its homestand against the Cleveland Monsters. Puck drop is scheduled for 5:05 p.m.