Wednesday, May 03, 2000
Cyclones wary despite playoff edge
Could advance in IHL playoffs with win tonight
By John P. Wise
Enquirer contributor
The Cyclones are one win from qualifying for the Eastern Conference finals, but are aware of Orlando's history of impressive comebacks.
Those in the Cincinnati camp watched last year as the Solar Bears overcame a 3-0 deficit and won four straight games to beat Detroit in the Eastern Conference finals. In the Turner Cup finals, Orlando fought back from a 3-1 down to force a seventh game with Houston, which the Aeros won.
“I think our guys know
Orlando's a never-say-die kind of team,” Cyclones coach Ron Smith said. “They've also got a lot of talent. I just don't think they've had all their guys on the same page.”
Orlando showcased its come-from-behind personality once again in Monday's game at Firstar Center. Though the Cyclones claimed a 6-5 overtime win, the Solar Bears rebounded from a 3-1 deficit to tie the game, and later turned a 4-3 Cincinnati lead into a 5-4 advantage for themselves.
“That's what they've done all year,” Smith said of Orlando's comebacks. “We just hope they've gone to the well one too many times.”
Orlando coach Peter Horachek said he thinks the well hasn't dried up yet. “Obviously, we didn't want to be in this situation, but I feel good about getting a win (tonight) and sending it back to Orlando,” he said Tuesday. “(The Cyclones) know about our past history.”
Horachek added it was difficult to lose Monday's game when he thought his players worked harder than they have all series.
“Two of (Cincinnati's) goals banked in off our defensemen and two more were knocked in from out of the air,” Horachek said. “They got some lucky bounces, but luck happens to good teams who work hard. Maybe we'll get some of those bounces next time.”
Cyclones center Ian Mac Neil, who scored twice Monday, agreed with Horachek's theory on luck. “You make your own luck by being in the right places and working hard,” he said.
Mike Rucinski, who needed seven stitches to close a gash above his eye Monday, will be ready tonight.
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