The Missouri Mavericks beat the Evansville IceMen, 3-2, in a contest where the winning goal was scored in the first period but the game remained close throughout.

Dave Pszenyczny provided Missouri with the game-winning tally when he scored 16:11 into the the first period. Ed McGrane provided the assist.

The win moved the Mavericks to down 1-0 in the best of seven series.

Missouri was sparked by Brandon Smith, who registered one goal. Smith scored 5:51 into the second period to make the score 3-1 Missouri. Sebastien Thinel picked up the assist.

The Mavericks' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Evansville power plays. Missouri's offense rang up 32 shots on Evansville's net.

More assists for Missouri came via Tristin Llewellyn, who had one and Ryan Jardine, who had two.

The IceMen stifled the Mavericks' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Evansville forced Missouri goalie Charlie Effinger to work between the pipes, taking 37 shots.

The IceMen were helped by Matt Pierce, who racked up one goal. Pierce scored 11:26 into the first period to make the score 1-1. Nicklas Lindberg provided the assist. Evansville also got a goal from Todd Robinson as well. In addition, Evansville received assists from Jake Obermeyer, who had one.

Effinger rejected 35 shots on goal for the Mavericks. Missouri incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors. Pier-Olivier Pelletier recorded 29 saves for Evansville. The IceMen incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.