Emery Olauson scored the go-ahead goal in the first period, and the Knoxville Ice Bears held off the challenges of Mississippi RiverKings in a tough 4-2 win.

Knoxville took over the lead for good with a goal by Olauson at 7:46 in the first period. The Ice Bears had gained a power play chance when Kyle Lundale was whistled for interference. Kevin Swider picked up the assist.

Knoxville evened the best of three series at 1-1 and forced a deciding game three.

The Ice Bears were led by Tyler Fletcher, who tallied one goal. Fletcher scored 1:44 into the third period to make the score 3-1 Knoxville. Mike Towns provided the assist.

Mississippi RiverKings was unable to stop Knoxville from sending pucks towards the net, and the Ice Bears eventually piled up 38 shots on goal. Knoxville cashed in on power play opportunities, scoring two goals on three chances.

Knoxville also got points from Swider, who also registered one goal and one assist and Olauson, who also grabbed one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Knoxville also got a goal from David Segal as well. In addition, Knoxville received assists from Ricky Helmbrecht and Eric Slais, who contributed one a piece.

Mississippi RiverKings' offense rang up 47 shots on the Ice Bears' net.

Mississippi RiverKings was helped by Justin MacDonald, who finished with one goal. MacDonald scored 3:05 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Knoxville. Ken Selby assisted on the tally. Matt Whitehead also scored for Mississippi RiverKings. More assists for Mississippi RiverKings came via Mark Magnowski and David Wilson, who each chipped in one.

Kyle Rank made 45 saves for Knoxville on 47 shots. The Ice Bears incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Wilson rejected 34 shots on goal for Mississippi RiverKings. Mississippi RiverKings incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.