The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins mounted a decisive third-period comeback to defeat the Toronto Marlies 5-3 on Monday night at Coca-Cola Coliseum, trimming the Marlies' series lead to 2-1 in the Eastern Conference final of the Calder Cup playoffs.
Third-Period Surge
After a tightly contested first two periods that ended in a 2-2 tie, the Penguins took control in the final frame. Ville Koivunen scored on a one-timer at 7:48 of the third period to give the Penguins a 3-2 lead. Just under three minutes later, Atley Calvert beat Marlies goaltender Artur Akhtyamov for what proved to be the game-winning goal at 10:43.
The Marlies responded by pulling Akhtyamov for an extra skater, and Marc Johnstone scored his first goal of the playoffs at 19:08 to bring Toronto within one. However, the Penguins sealed the victory with an empty-net goal by Tanner Howe at 19:24.
Power Play Struggles
The Marlies had three power-play opportunities but failed to capitalize against Penguins goaltender Sergei Murashov. Despite generating some scoring chances, Toronto could not convert with the man advantage, a factor that contributed to the loss.
Key Moments
Luke Haymes tied the game at 2-2 late in the second period at 17:36, banking the puck off Penguins defenseman Owen Pickering from the corner. Earlier, Akhtyamov made a crucial save on Tanner Howe during a breakaway.
Vinni Lettieri opened the scoring for the Marlies at 12:15 of the first period with a shot from the point that found its way through a screen. Aidan McDonough tied the game for the Penguins on a power-play tap-in at 14:38 after Michael Pezzetta was called for tripping. The Penguins took a 2-1 lead at 2:04 of the second period when Bill Zonnon, a first-round pick by Pittsburgh (22nd overall in 2025), shoved the puck over the line following a rush by McDonough.
Injury Update
Marlies rookie forward Easton Cowan missed his second consecutive game due to an upper-body injury. His status for Game 4 remains uncertain.
Series Schedule
Games 4 and 5 will be played at Coca-Cola Coliseum on Wednesday and Friday, respectively. If necessary, Games 6 and 7 will be held in Wilkes-Barre on Sunday and Tuesday.
