The Tulsa Oilers tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Missouri Mavericks held on for a 4-2 victory.

A goal by Andrew Courtney put Missouri up 4-1 in the third period, but Tulsa pulled to within two on Mike Ullrich's tally 9:13 into the third period.

Courtney had a great game for the Mavericks, netting two goals.

Missouri's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Tulsa power plays. The Mavericks relied on a core group of players for most of their offense, as Ed McGrane, Kris Hogg and Courtney took 13 of the team's 23 shots.

Dave Pszenyczny also scored for Missouri. More assists for Missouri came via Sebastien Thinel, who had three and Patrick Schafer and Randy McNaught, who each chipped in one.

The Oilers' offense was clicking better than usual and put 34 shots on goal during the game, better than the 23.0 shots per game they average.

Tulsa was helped by David Solway, who finished with one goal. Solway scored 3:09 into the second period to make the score 1-0 Tulsa. Troy Ofukany assisted on the tally. In addition, Tulsa received assists from Michel Beausoleil, who had one.

Charlie Effinger made 32 saves for Missouri on 34 shots. The Mavericks totaled 13 minutes in penalty time with four minors and one major and went 1-for-3 on the power play. Steve Christie rejected 19 shots on goal for the Oilers. Tulsa ended with 13 minutes in penalty time with four minors and one major.