GWINNETT, Georgia – Andy Brandt scored twice, including a late empty-netter, to help lift the Gwinnett Gladiators (37-17-7-4) over the Cincinnati Cyclones (29-24-2-7) by a 3-1 final score in front of 2,874 at Gwinnett Center on Wednesday night.

Jonathan Hazen, who has missed the last couple of weeks with a head injury, returned to the ice and gave the Cyclones a 1-0 lead as he stick handled through the Gwinnett defense and deposited a backhanded wrist shot through Marc Cheverie (W, 17 saves, 6-3-6-2) at 7:19. However, just seconds after a Gladiators power play had expired, Paul Flache stepped into a rising wrist shot and beat Brian Foster (L, 29 saves, 12-8-1-1) over the shoulder to knot the score at 1-1 through 20 minutes.

The Gladiators were once again beneficiaries of a lucky bounce as Jordan Foreman was able to feed Andy Brandt in low slot and he lifted home the go-ahead strike at 17:09 of the second stanza. With only five shots on net in the middle frame, Cincinnati trailed after two periods by a 2-1 count.

It was a stalemate for most of the third period; however, in the final two minutes Gwinnett’s Dallas Jackson was whistled for a hi-sticking infraction – sending the Cyclones to another power play as time wound down. Unfortunately, even with an empty net and an extra skater, Cincinnati couldn’t light the lamp. Then, with six seconds to play in regulation, Brandt picked up a loose puck in the corner and buried his second tally of the night to seal a 3-1 victory for the Gladiators.

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

First Star: Andy Brandt (2 goals for Gwinnett)
Second Star: Paul Flache (1 goal for Gwinnett)
Third Star: Marc Cheverie (Winning goaltender, 17 saves)

After a practice day tomorrow, the Cyclones and Gladiators will reunite at Gwinnett Center for a Friday night tilt. Fans can hear all the action of the game on the Cyclones Radio Network (1050-AM, America One) beginning at 7:20pm with the opening face-off to follow at 7:35pm.

The Cyclones will return to U.S. Bank Arena on Wednesday, March 21 when they welcome in the Chicago Express at 7:30pm. It will be the final Wet Wednesday of the season, featuring $1 PBR and Miller High Life. In addition, a pre-game Pucks N Pinot wine tasting event will be 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 to view tonight's box score.