The Knoxville Ice Bears had a four-goal lead after two periods and cruised the rest of the way en route to a 5-1 win over the Columbus Cottonmouths.

Columbus was stymied by Knoxville netminder Chad Collins, who stopped 27 shots during the victory. The solid play of Collins will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 3.8.

The Ice Bears stifled the Cottonmouths' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Knoxville's offense was clicking better than usual and put 37 shots on goal during the game, better than the 31.8 shots per game it averages.

The Ice Bears were led by David Segal, who finished with two goals. Segal scored the first of his two goals at 19:47 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Knoxville. Kevin Harris picked up the assist. Segal's next tally made the score 4-0 Knoxville with 1:11 left in the second period. Frank Furdero assisted on the tally. Knoxville also got points from Kevin Swider, who also registered one goal and one assist and Travis Martell, who also grabbed one goal and one assist. Knoxville also got a goal from Randy Johnston as well. More assists for Knoxville came via B.J. Pelkey, who had one and Chris Brannen and Mark Van Vliet, who each chipped in two.

Columbus excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances. The Cottonmouths could not produce up to they normal offensive output. Columbus averages 3.1 goals per game.

The Cottonmouths were led by Ryan McCarthy, who dished out one assist.

Knoxville incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Ian Vigier rejected 32 shots on goal for Columbus. The Cottonmouths incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.