The Quad City Mallards tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Wichita Thunder held on for a 3-1 victory.

Wichita took a 3-0 lead during the second period, only to have Quad City storm back on a Patrik Levesque goal 5:00 into the third period to pull to two goals down.

The Thunder were led by goalie Kevin Regan, who finished with 27 saves while allowing one goal. Regan certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 2.16 entering the contest.

Wichita relied on a core group of players for most of its offense, as Les Reaney, Todd Griffith and Neil Trimm took 15 of the team's 29 shots.

More assists for Wichita came via Ian Lowe and Jarred Mohr, who contributed one a piece and Ryan Flanigan and Nathan Lutz, who each chipped in two.

The Mallards excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances. Quad City put 28 shots on net during the contest, more than the 25.3 it averages per game.

In addition, Quad City received assists from Darren McMillan and Matt Duffy, who contributed one a piece.

The Thunder ended with nine minutes in penalty time with two minors and one major. John Murray recorded 26 saves for the Mallards. Quad City totaled nine minutes in penalty time with two minors and one major and went 1-for-2 on the power play.