Monsters win in overtime thriller against Toronto to start playoffs

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - The Cleveland Monsters beat the Toronto Marlies 4-3 in overtime to take Game 1 of the First Round of the Calder Cup Playoffs.

Toronto took an early lead with a first period goal by Alex Nylander off an assist from Nick Abruzzese.

Denton Mateychuk rejoined Cleveland after the Blue Jackets season ended, and struck first for the Monsters with a goal off assists from Rocco Grimaldi and Madison Bowey to tie the game up 1-1.

After a scoreless second period, the Monsters scored back-to-back goals, first Guillaume Richard gave Cleveland their first lead, then Luca Pinelli had a power-play goal to extend the Monsters’ lead to 3-1.

Marlies would answer back with two-straight goals themselves, both from Alex Steeves to force overtime.

In overtime, Pinelli would score the game-winner, and his second goal of the night to secure victory for Cleveland.

Jet Greaves had 25 saves for Cleveland in the victory.

The Monsters now have a 1-0 series lead in the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs.

Game two against the Marlies is on Saturday, April 26 at 4:00 p.m. in Toronto.