Syracuse Crunch Dominates Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in 6-0 Shutout

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The Syracuse Crunch delivered a commanding performance, shutting out the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins 6-0 at the Upstate Medical University Arena. This victory marked the team’s fifth shutout of the season and helped them snap a four-game losing streak, improving their record to 18-11-2-1.

The game started with a strong offensive display from the Crunch, who scored five goals in the first period alone. The team saw contributions from six different players: Tristan Allard, Dylan Duke, Jarred Tinordi, Jakob Pelletier, Conor Geekie, and Nick Abruzzese. This balanced scoring effort was crucial in maintaining control throughout the game.

Brandon Halverson was the star in net for the Crunch, making 17 saves to secure his third shutout of the season. Sergei Murashov, the Penguins’ starting goaltender, stopped 6 of 11 shots before being replaced by Filip Larsson in the second period. Larsson then made 19 of 20 saves, showcasing strong defensive support for the Penguins.

The Crunch’s power play was effective, converting on two of six opportunities, while their penalty kill successfully shut down all four Penguins’ man-advantages.

A Fast-Start in the First Period

The Crunch wasted no time in establishing dominance. They scored three goals within the first 4:34 of the game. Tristan Allard opened the scoring at the 2:12 mark after a blocked shot led to a rebound that he capitalized on with a close-range slap shot. Just under a minute later, Dylan Duke tipped in a shot from Jakob Pelletier during a power play. Jarred Tinordi added the third goal of the period, scoring on a wrister after a rebound found its way to him in the slot.

The team continued its momentum, adding two more goals in the first period. Pelletier scored on a breakaway during 4-on-4 play at the 14:46 mark, and Conor Geekie completed the five-goal onslaught just 55 seconds before the end of the period with a quick shot past the Penguins’ netminder.

Continued Success in the Third Period

The Crunch extended their lead early in the third period with another power-play goal. After a shot from Pelletier was blocked, Geekie attempted to chip the puck into the net. Filip Larsson managed to block the shot, but Nick Abruzzese was there to jam the loose puck into the net. The Crunch maintained their defensive intensity for the rest of the game, ensuring a clean sheet.

Looking Ahead

Syracuse is set to return to action on Wednesday when they host the Rochester Americans. Fans can purchase ticket packages for the 2025-26 season through various channels, including the Crunch office located inside the Upstate Medical University Arena, by calling 315-473-4444, or via Ticketmaster online.

For updates on the team, fans are encouraged to visit www.syracusecrunch.com or follow the club on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Crunchables

• The Crunch scored five goals in a single period for the second time this season. The first occurrence was on November 11 against Utica.
• Jarred Tinordi recorded a Gordie Howe hat trick, marking the first time the Crunch has seen such an achievement since Gage Goncalives did so on April 13, 2024.
• Brandon Halverson secured his third shutout of the season tonight.