The Belleville Senators were unable to score as they lost 3-0 to the Utica Comets in the opening game of their weekend series. Both teams created opportunities in the first period, but Utica scored first.
The Comets' power play was effective early on. A quick passing sequence between Seamus Casey and Xavier Parent set up Matyas Melovsky, who scored to give Utica a 1-0 lead. Belleville was heavily outshot, 15-5, in the opening frame despite successfully killing three penalties.
Utica maintained momentum, scoring their second goal early in the second period. Calen Addison, assisted by Jonathan Gruden and Mikael Diotte, netted his first goal of the season to extend the lead to 2-0. Late in the period, former Senator Angus Crookshank added a third goal, with assists from Ethan Edwards and Ryan Schmelzer, making it 3-0.
Belleville generated some chances in the final period but failed to convert, ending the match 3-0 in favor of Utica.
The teams will soon face each other again as the Senators return home to Adirondack Bank Center next Friday, starting a three-game New York State road trip against Utica.
"The Senators are set to return to Adirondack Bank Center next Friday, as part of a three-game New York State road trip."
Author's summary: The Belleville Senators struggled offensively and conceded three goals to Utica, falling 3-0 in the opener of their series, with a quick rematch scheduled next week.