Cyclone Hockey’s power play failed to capitalize on its chances as the team dropped a crucial game against Robert Morris, 5-3, at the Edge Arena in Chicago.

The No. 10 Cyclones (14-12-6) came out as strong as they ended their series with Central Oklahoma. They forced penalties, earning themselves two power plays in the first period. The power plays managed to generate scoring chances, but the Cyclones couldn’t capitalize on any of them. 

Assistant captain Nate Percy said before the series that it would be imperative to slow No. 6 Robert Morris’ (27-4-1) quick and effective transition game. The Cyclones failed to do that following their second power play when the Eagles transitioned from their penalty kill into a 3-on-2 advantage. They made it count after Jake Prinz received a drop-back pass and put the puck just over goaltender Scott Ismond’s left shoulder.

The power play woes only continued for the Cyclones in the second period. The team grabbed two power plays in the period but couldn’t find the net. One of the power plays led to a chance at the other end of the ice, and the Eagles made the Cyclones pay.

On a positive note for the Cyclones, Antti Helanto scored a pair of goals to keep the score within reach at 3-2 going into the second intermission.

The Eagles extended their lead to two goals early in the third period. The Cyclones fought back and finally broke through on a power play as Seth Serhienko found the back of the net with four seconds left on the team’s one-man advantage, pulling the Cyclones to within one point.

The Eagles managed to tack on another late goal in a 4-on-4 scenario. The Cyclones failed to score on their final power play, a 5-on-3 advantage, and were unable to threaten again. 

The Cyclones’ power play was 1-for-9 in the game in total, and allowed a goal.

The Cyclones will have another chance to get back on track against the Eagles at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Edge Ice Arena.