Florida Everblades Secure South Division Title with Victory Over Orlando Solar Bears

ORLANDO, Fla. – In a thrilling conclusion to the South Division Finals, the Florida Everblades clinched the series with a 3-1 victory over the Orlando Solar Bears on Saturday night at the Kia Center.

The decisive moment came with just 1:48 remaining in the third period when Cole Moberg capitalized on a power-play opportunity, breaking a 1-1 tie and securing the win for the Everblades.

This victory not only sealed the best-of-seven series with a 4-1 margin but also marked the Everblades' 14th consecutive postseason series win, underscoring their dominance in the league.

The game began with the Solar Bears taking an early lead. At 7:51 of the first period, Anthony Bardaro found the back of the net, giving Orlando a 1-0 advantage.

However, this would be the only goal for the home team, as the Everblades' defense tightened, limiting the Solar Bears to just 11 shots on goal for the remainder of the match.

Early in the second period, the Everblades responded. At 3:25, Colton Hargrove tipped in his fifth goal of the playoffs, assisted by Moberg and Logan Lambdin, leveling the score at 1-1.

Despite dominating the shot count 13-4 in the second period, Florida couldn't add to their tally, setting the stage for a tense final frame.

The third period saw the Everblades continue their offensive pressure, outshooting Orlando 15-3.

With overtime looming, a tripping penalty on Orlando's Alex Frye at 17:50 provided Florida with a crucial power-play opportunity.

Seizing the moment, Moberg scored the game-winning goal just 22 seconds into the power play, with assists from Alex Kile and Hargrove.

To cap off the night, Everblades' captain Oliver Chau added an empty-net goal just before the final buzzer, marking his third goal in two nights and solidifying the 3-1 victory.

Florida's offensive onslaught resulted in a 37-15 advantage in shots on goal.

Goaltender Cam Johnson was instrumental in the win, stopping 14 shots and contributing to the Everblades' eighth win in nine playoff games.

With this triumph, the Everblades advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they will face either the Trois-Rivières Lions or the Norfolk Admirals.

The Lions and Admirals are currently tied at two games apiece in the North Division Finals, with Game Five scheduled for Sunday.

Fans eager to support the Everblades in their pursuit of a fourth consecutive Kelly Cup title can find more information and purchase tickets for upcoming playoff games at Hertz Arena.

BLADES BITS

This series marked the second consecutive season that the Everblades have eliminated the Solar Bears from the Kelly Cup Playoffs and the sixth time in Orlando's history.

Orlando, making its seventh ECHL postseason appearance, has been ousted by Florida in each of its last six playoff runs.

In their 33 playoff encounters, the Everblades hold a 24-9 advantage over their in-state rivals.

Both Moberg and Hargrove recorded a goal and an assist in the series-clinching win.

For Moberg, this was his second multi-point game of the series, having also achieved the feat in Game One.

Hargrove similarly notched multiple points in Game Two, contributing a goal and two assists.

JOIN THE FUN

Season ticket plans for the 2025-26 campaign are now available.

By becoming a Blades 365 Member, fans can enjoy significant savings and exclusive benefits.

For more details on membership options, visit the Everblades' official website.

Group packages are also on offer for parties of 10 or more.

The Everblades provide a seamless fundraising opportunity with no handling of money or tickets and no limit to the amount your group can raise.

To reserve a Fundraiser Night at an Everblades regular-season home game, contact the team at (239) 948-7825.

Fans can also explore the latest Everblades merchandise online or at the Hertz Arena Pro Shop.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Stay connected with the Everblades by watching every game on FloHockey.TV and listening to live game action on ESPN Southwest Florida.

Follow the team on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Twitter for the latest news, scores, and promotions.