Michal Neuvirth and Karl Alzner, Key catalysts in tonight's game, celebrate a job well done. (Photos by Kyle M.)

It had been 12 days since the Hershey Bears last played. And tonight it only took 16 seconds for them to shake off the rust.

Sean Collins wicked shot from the point opened the scoring in Game 1 of Hershey’s Eastern Conference Finals Series against the Manchester Monarchs, and Andrew Gordon’s rebound tally on the powerplay 10 minutes later in the first period gave Hershey a 2 goal lead they’d never relinquish. Steve Pinizzotto (GWG) and Karl Alzner also chipped in with goals for the Bears on a night where they improved to 9-1 in this year’s postseason and won their 6th consecutive playoff game.

Michal Neuvirth got the start tonight and played big making 24 saves and stopping 3 breakaways. The third period was Hershey’s only bad period, as they seemed to come out of the lockerroom fatigued and a little overconfident with a 3-0 lead. The Monarchs managed to score twice and outshoot the Bears 11-6 in the period, but Karl Alzner’s late goal sealed the game for the Chocolate and White.

Hershey will now go for a 2-0 lead Saturday Night in front of their home fans at Giant Center.

Make sure to check out the other fantastic photos RMNB correspondent Kyle M. took from tonight’s game below and make sure to follow him on Twitter for all your Bears Updates.

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