CINCINNATI, Ohio – The Cincinnati Cyclones (16-13-0-5) enjoyed a three-goal first period and never looked back as they rolled past the Chicago Express (17-16-4-2) by a 4-1 final score in front of 5,755 at U.S. Bank Arena.

For just the fifth time this season, the Cyclones scored the game’s first three goals. Mike Pelech opened the scoring at the 5:44 mark by backhanding a shot over the shoulder of Chicago goaltender Peter Mannino (L, 25 saves, 1-2-0-1), making it 1-0. Matt Sisca followed with his third goal in two games at 8:33 by tipping a Maury Edwards point shot. David Leaderer extended the Cincinnati cushion to 3-0 just before the break, at 17:45, as he sent a low wrist shot past Mannino for his fourth lamp-lighter of the season. After 20 minutes, Cincinnati enjoyed a 3-0 lead.

Despite four power plays for each team in the middle frame, the Cyclones remained ahead 3-0 after two periods thanks to some solid penalty killing and 15 saves by Cyclones netminder Chet Pickard (W, 27 saves, 7-9-0-1).

In the third period, the Express spoiled Pickard’s shutout hopes when Kyle Ostrow tipped Josh Burrows’ shot into the net, making it 3-1 Cincinnati. However, the Cyclones pulled back ahead by three as Taylor Aronson blasted in his first professional goal on the powerplay at the 12:34 mark, giving Cincinnati a 4-1 cushion. They held on to win by the same score.

The Cyclones Radio Network Three Stars of the Game are as follows:

First Star: Mike Pelech (1 goal, 1 assist for Cincinnati)
Second Star: Chet Pickard (27 saves, winning goaltender)
Third Star: David Leaderer (1 goal, 1 assist for Cincinnati)

Cincinnati will now embark on a four-game road trip beginning with another battle against the Express at Sears Centre on Wednesday night at 8:00pm ET. Fans can watch the game LIVE at the final PBR Party Express Viewing Party at Dave and Busters! Pregame coverage will begin on the Cyclones Radio Network (1050-AM, America One) beginning at 7:45pm ET.

The Cyclones will return to U.S. Bank Arena on Wednesday, February 1 as they welcome in the Toledo Walleye at 7:30pm. It will be another Wet Wednesday, where fans 21 and up can enjoy $1 PBR and Miller High Life! In addition, there will be another “Pucks N Pinot” pregame wine tasting event available for purchase. Secure your seats now by calling 513.421.PUCK or log on to CyclonesHockey.com. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the season on Facebook and Twitter (@CincyCyclones).

Click here for tonight's box score.