CINCINNATI, Ohio – Mike Pelech’s second period goal turned out to be the game-winner as the Cincinnati Cyclones (25-19-1-7) held on for a 2-1 win over the Florida Everblades (26-22-2-4) in front of 5,328 at U.S. Bank Arena on Friday night.

After a scoreless first period, Florida’s Mathieu Roy made it 1-0 when he slid a shot underneath Cincinnati net minder Brian Foster (W, 23 saves, 11-4-0-1) at 2:49. However, the Cyclones answered back at 11:32 when Matt Sisca broke away with a puck at center ice and buried his 17th of the season over the blocker of Everblades goalie Pat Nagle (L, 30 saves, 17-13-3), knotting things at one. Then, with under a minute to play in the middle frame, Mike Pelech slammed in a rebound right along the goal line for a 2-1 Cyclones lead at the second intermission.

In the third period, both teams had ample chances to light the lamp but the goaltenders stayed perfect. The Everblades pulled Nagle in the final minutes to attempt a late comeback, but it was thwarted by more solid Cyclones defense as they preserved a 2-1 win.

The Cyclones Radio Network Stars of the Game are as follows:

First Star: Mike Pelech (Game-winning goal for Cincinnati)
Second Star: Matt Sisca (Goal for Cincinnati)
Third Star: Brian Foster (Winning goaltender, 23 saves)

The Cyclones wrap up their four-game home stand tomorrow night with a Saturday battle against the Kalamazoo Wings at 7:30pm! It’s another Kids Eat FREE Night, with all fans ages 2-12 receiving a FREE meal courtesy of John Morrell and Snack Healthy! In addition, it’s the second Pucks and Pups game of the year, with fans able to bring their four-legged friends to U.S. Bank Arena for only $2 in addition to a normal game ticket! Secure your seats now by calling 513.421.PUCK or log on to CyclonesHockey.com. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the season on Facebook and Twitter (@CincyCyclones).

Click here to view tonight's box score.