EVANSVILLE, Indiana – The Evansville IceMen (13-21-0-3) benefited from some early offense and never looked back as they defeated the Cincinnati Cyclones (20-12-2-0) by an 4-1 final score in front of 4,679 at Ford Center on Sunday evening.

The IceMen jumped out to an early 2-0 lead as Kevin Baker and Anthony Nigro potted goals at 4:58 and 9:00 respectively. Then, at 17:14, Sebastian Wannstrom caught a no-look pass from Nigro and lifted in his fourth lamp-lighter of the season past Michael Houser (L, 35 saves, 3-2-0) to extend the Evansville cushion to 3-0 at the first intermission.

Evansville continued to pad their lead late in the second period at Daniel Tetrault blasted a point shot past Houser to make it 4-0 with 16:34 gone. Cincinnati finally ended the shutout bid by Paul Karpowich (W, 32 saves, 5-7-0-1) as rookie Paul Kirtland tucked in a rebound for his first professional goal at the 17:39 mark. After 40 minutes, the IceMen held the 4-1 edge.

With a comfortable lead, the IceMen would shut the Cyclones down defensively in the final period, despite a flurry of power plays for the visiting team. Although things got physical late in the contest, neither club could dent the scoreboard again as the IceMen preserved a 4-1 victory.

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

First Star: Cody Beach (2 assists for Evansville)
Second Star: Paul Karpowich (32 saves, winning goaltender)
Third Star: Anthony Nigro (1 goal, 1assist for Evansville)

The Cyclones will return to the ice at U.S. Bank Arena on Wednesday, January 9 when they play host to the Orlando Solar Bears for the first time this season. The game will feature $1 PBR and Miller High Life for fans 21 and up. Plus, we’ll celebrate the Best of the 90’s – with music from the decade. Fans are encouraged to dress in their best 90’s attire, with cash prizes going to some of the most creative! Call 513.421.PUCK or visit CyclonesHockey.com to reserve your seats! Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the season on Facebook and Twitter (@CincyCyclones).

Click here for tonight's box score.