Vladimir Nikiforov scored the clinching goal in a shootout, and the Bloomington Blaze picked up the extra point in a 3-2 (3-0 SO) win over the Dayton Gems.

The shootout featured six attempts between both teams. In addition to the clincher, Bloomington got shootout goals from Nikiforov and Kyle Laughlin.

The Blaze saw a two-goal lead disappear, but was able to secure the win in a shootout. Bloomington made the score 2-0 on a goal by Jon Booras at 11:14 in the second period. Dayton evened things up at 2-2 on a goal by Damian Surma at 17:21 in the third period.

The Blaze were led by Nikiforov, who tallied one goal. Nikiforov scored 16:07 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Bloomington. Craig Cescon assisted on the tally.

The 35 shots that Bloomington put on net surpassed the Blaze's average of 29.4 shots per game this season.

Bloomington was led by Nikiforov, who had one goal. More assists for Bloomington came via Laughlin and Brandon Richardson, who each chipped in one.

The Gems put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Blaze to score on any of their three power plays. By firing 29 shots on goal, Dayton exceeded the 26.0 shots it averages per game this year.

The Gems were helped by Matthew Larke, who racked up one goal. Larke scored 8:36 into the third period to make the score 2-1 Bloomington. Surma picked up the assist. Other players who recorded assists for Dayton were Brett Lutes, who had two.

Bloomington's Zane Kalemba stopped 27 shots out of the 29 that he faced. The Blaze ended with 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major. Larry Sterling recorded 32 saves for Dayton. The Gems totaled 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 1-for-3 on the power play.