The Odessa Jackalopes tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Topeka RoadRunners held on for a 4-3 victory.

Topeka made the score 4-2 on a goal by Tyler Poulsen at 19:07 in the second period, and Odessa got as close as 4-3 when Stephen Inman scored 14:54 into the third period.

Poulsen was all over the ice for the RoadRunners, as he had two goals in the win.

Topeka's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Odessa power plays. The RoadRunners put 41 shots on net during the contest, more than the 25.9 they average per game.

Topeka also got points from Kyle Sharkey, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Drew Kariofiles also scored for Topeka. In addition, Topeka received assists from Luke Veitch, Tyler Andrew, Michael Covach, Brandon Brossoit, and Codey Hansen, who contributed one a piece.

The the Jackalopes penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled nine minors and one major for 33 minutes in penalty time. The total exceeded the 21.0 minutes per game Odessa had been spending in the box. The defense for the Jackalopes played an important role offensively, racking up 15 shots on goal. With 35 shots on target during the contest, Odessa exceeded the 13.1 shots it averages per game this year.

The Jackalopes were helped by Corey Hoffman, who tallied one goal. Hoffman scored 5:08 into the second period to make the score 2-2. Matt Volonnino picked up the assist. Odessa also got a goal from Taylor Portner as well. Other players who recorded assists for Odessa were Brett Wagner, who had one and Anthony Olguin and Dylan Campbell, who contributed two a piece.

Topeka's Mackenzie Sawyer stopped 32 shots out of the 35 that he faced. The RoadRunners totaled 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 1-for-10 on the power play. Nick Deery made 37 saves for Odessa on 41 shots.