The Albany River Rats passed their first test this week against a division leader in the American Hockey League.
Right wing Jerome Samson registered a four-point night, including three assists, and left wing Oskar Osala scored two goals as the River Rats rolled past Atlantic Division-leading Worcester, 5-3 on Wednesday at Times Union Center.
Goalie Mike Morrison made a season-high 37 saves for Albany, which won its fourth consecutive game and halted the Sharks’ winning streak at four.
The River Rats (38-24-3-5) now lead third-place Norfolk by 10 points (84-74) in the race to secure second place in the East Division.
Next up for Albany is a Friday night game at East Division leader and rival Hershey.
Samson, who assisted on both of Osala’s goals, scored the go-ahead goal while on the power play at 19:28 of the second period for his team-leading 33rd tally.
Center Cedric McNicoll, left wing Drayson Bowman and Osala followed a goal each in the third period to put away Worcester (41-21-2-3).
Morrison made seven saves over the final 1:20 of play to secure the win for Albany.
Former Rats goalie Frank Doyle finished with 24 saves in taking the loss.