Monarchs respond to critics, win two away

Not more than two days ago both inside and outside sources were in two minds regarding the reasons for the lack of Monarch scoring. Coach Mark Morris went even as far as to claim that, similarly to the parent team:

"his young team would score by committee. The lack of a league scoring leader might be a predicament a coach cannot fix. Rather, resolution may come from general manager Ron Hextall via trade or other acquisition. He has said there are some "lines in the water" toward that end."

So helped by the schedule makers, the LA affiliate went on the road in search for the cure and came back winning and scoring. Both times.

Ryan Murphy, RW scored twice to help beat the Springield Falcons 4:2, with Tim Jackman and Petr Kanko chipping in with one apiece. Jason LaBarbera restored order in the net with a 23-for-25 save performance.

A day later in Providence, star RW Lauri Tukonen put on a clinic scoring twice, inluding an OT winner for a 3-2 edge. Eric Werner had three assists, while the power play turned out a steady effort with three overall goals (3-for-11). Matt Moulson scored his first professional goal.

The Monarchs will get much needed rest for a week now, before squaring off against the Worcester Sharks on Saturday, October 28.

Injury and suspension update
Captain defenseman Brendan Buckley has been upgraded to day-to-day with an upper body injury. He will likely require another week of rehab. John Zeiler missed both road games due to two-game league suspension for instigating a wrestling match with Providence Steve Leach.