Rapid City tried to dig itself out of a three-goal hole, but the Denver Cutthroats held on for a 3-2 victory.

A goal by Lee Moffie put Denver up 3-0 in the second period, but Rapid City pulled to within one on Konrad Reeder's tally 18:22 into the third period.

The Cutthroats' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on five Rapid City power plays. Denver's defensemen played well offensively, producing three goals while racking up 10 shots.

The Cutthroats were helped by Mikael Tam, who tallied one goal. Tam scored short handed 33 seconds into the second period to make the score 2-0 Denver. TJ Fox assisted on the tally. Daniel Amesbury also scored for Denver. In addition, Denver received assists from Jason Cohen, Troy Schwab, Phil Tesoriero, Matt Glasser, and Garett Bembridge, who contributed one a piece.

Rapid City excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances. The 34 shots that Rapid City put on net surpassed Rapid City's average of 30.5 shots per game this season.

Rapid City also got a goal from Scott Wray as well. More assists for Rapid City came via Riley Weselowski, Winston Day Chief, and Kevin Harvey, who each chipped in one.

Kent Patterson recorded 32 saves for Denver. The Cutthroats incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Rapid City's Tim Boron stopped 21 shots out of the 24 that he faced. Rapid City incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.