Darryl Bootland scored the go-ahead goal in the first period, and the Allen Americans held off the challenges of the Tulsa Oilers in a tough 3-1 win.

A goal 8:56 into the the first period by Bootland proved to be the game winner, and powered Allen to the victory Scotty Howes picked up the assist.

The Americans' penalty kill excelled, as Allen gave up one goal despite allowing seven power plays.

The Americans were led by Ryley Grantham, who grabbed one goal. Grantham scored 15:45 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Allen. Trevor Ludwig provided the assist.

Allen relied on a core group of players for most of its offense, as Bootland, Jamie Schaafsma and Adam Pineault took 13 of the team's 25 shots.

Nino Musitelli also scored for Allen. More assists for Allen came via Drew Daniels, Brett Skinner, Brian McMillin, and Anthony Maiani, who contributed one a piece.

Tulsa put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Americans to score on any of their three power plays.

The Oilers were led by Ryan Menei, who scored the team's only goal. Menei scored on the power play 15:31 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Allen. A roughing penalty on Kip Brennan had put Tulsa on the power play. Drew Fisher assisted on the tally.

Steve Silverthorn made 24 saves for Allen on 25 shots. The Americans incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Dan Bakala recorded 22 saves for the Oilers. Tulsa incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.