The Columbus Cottonmouths survived a determined comeback attempt by the Fayetteville FireAntz on the way to a 6-4 win.

A goal by Peter MacDougall put Columbus up 6-3 in the third period, but Fayetteville pulled to within two on Charlie Pens' tally 6:27 into the third period.

John Sullivan had one goal and two assists to lead the Cottonmouths. Sullivan scored 7:20 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Columbus. Jordan Braid provided the assist.

Columbus outdid its season average for goals scored. This season, the Cottonmouths average three goals per contest. Columbus could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 24 minutes in penalties during the game. The leading offender was Will Barlow, who totaled 14 minutes in penalty time with two minors and one misconduct. The Cottonmouths got an offensive boost from their blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game. With 51 shots on target during the contest, Columbus exceeded the 23 shots it averages per game this year.

Columbus also got points from Braid, who also had one goal and one assist, Mitch Wall, who also racked up one goal and one assist, and Sullivan, who also tallied one goal and two assists. Columbus got a goal from Kevin Kessler as well. Other players who recorded assists for Columbus were Brett Hammond, who had two and Greg Beller and Ryan Pearson, who contributed one each.

The FireAntz stifled the Cottonmouths' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Fayetteville was below its usual level of shot production, taking 19 shots compared to the 23 the FireAntz average.

Fayetteville was led by Robert Sich, who registered one goal and one assist. Sich scored 1:19 into the third period to make the score 5-3 Columbus. Sean Cryer picked up the assist. Fayetteville additionally got points from Sich, who also had one goal and one assist. Mike Forgie also scored for Fayetteville. In addition, Fayetteville received assists from Matt Smyth, Chris Rebernik, and Kyle Frieday, who each chipped in one.

Ian Vigier made 15 saves for Columbus on 19 shots. The Cottonmouths registered zero goals on four power play opportunities. Erik Hudson made 16 saves before being replaced by Mike Brown, who took the loss and made 29 saves. The FireAntz incurred 32 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Fayetteville ran into disciplinary problems during the contest, and Sich was ejected from the game.