Charlotte Checkers Edge Toronto Marlies in Tight Contest
TORONTO – The Toronto Marlies came up just short against the Charlotte Checkers on Sunday, falling 3-2 at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Despite a late push in the third period, the Marlies were unable to overcome Charlotte’s strong special teams and defensive play.
The Checkers struck first on the power play, with Ryan Leonard netting his 28th goal of the season at 10:10 of the first period. Toronto found themselves in penalty trouble early, with three infractions in the opening frame, limiting their offensive momentum.
Charlotte extended their lead in the second period when Alex Steeves capitalized on another power play opportunity at 5:15. The Marlies responded midway through the frame, as Robert Mastrosimone converted a feed from Joseph Blandisi and Zachary Anderson at 11:40 to cut the deficit to 2-1. However, Charlotte quickly restored their two-goal advantage when Sandis Vilmanis found the back of the net at 14:57.
Final
Shots
CLT: 30 I TOR: 18 pic.twitter.com/aIEAJd3b17— Toronto Marlies (@TorontoMarlies) March 16, 2025
Toronto mounted a push in the final period, with Marc-Olivier Paré scoring just 2:46 into the frame, assisted by William Villeneuve. However, despite applying pressure late, the Marlies were unable to find the equalizer. Penalties continued to hamper their chances, including a high-sticking call against Mastrosimone in the final two minutes. A misconduct penalty to Blandisi at the end of regulation further highlighted the Marlies’ frustrations.
Charlotte outshot Toronto 30-18, with goaltender Ken Appleby making 16 saves to secure the win. Toronto’s Dennis Akhtyamov turned away 27 of 30 shots in the loss. The Checkers also made the most of their power play opportunities, going 2-for-7, while the Marlies went scoreless on their three chances.
The Marlies will look to bounce back in their next matchup against Laval Rocket on Wednesday March 19.
