The Denver Cutthroats took the lead against the Wichita Thunder in the first period and maintained it until the end of the game to secure a tight 2-0 victory.

Denver took over the lead for good with a goal by Troy Schwab at 19:37 in the first period. A.J. Gale picked up the assist.

Kent Patterson spearheaded the defensive effort for the Cutthroats, as he did not allow a puck past him and made 29 saves for the shutout. Patterson certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 3.32 entering the contest.

Denver was sparked by Schwab, who racked up one goal.

The Cutthroats' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Wichita power plays. Denver's defensive play was more effective than usual against Wichita. The Cutthroats average 3.0 goals allowed per game. Denver relied on a core group of players for most of its offense, as Gale, Jamie MacQueen and Brad Smyth took 20 of the team's 29 shots.

Other players who recorded assists for Denver were Gabriel Beaupre and Luke Fulghum, who each chipped in one.

The Thunder excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances. Wichita was held below its usual level of production. The Thunder average 3.6 goals per game. Wichita relied on a core group of players for most of its offense, as Gregor Hanson, Neil Trimm and Matt Summers took 15 of the team's 29 shots.

The Cutthroats ended with 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major. The Thunder's Kevin Regan stopped 27 shots out of the 29 that he faced. Wichita ended with 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major.