The Denver Cutthroats tried their best to erase a two-goal deficit, but the Allen Americans would not be denied the victory and hung on to win, 3-2.

A goal by Jamie Schaafsma put Allen up 3-1 in the third period, but Denver pulled to within one on A.J. Gale's tally 12:50 into the third period.

The Americans were paced by Schaafsma, who had one goal and one assist. Schaafsma scored 8:56 into the third period to make the score Allen. Tyler Ludwig provided the assist.

Allen found itself short handed often, totaling 20 penalty minutes and allowing two power plays. The 52 shots that the Americans put on net surpassed Allen's average of 27.2 shots per game this season.

Allen additionally got points from Anthony Maiani, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Darryl Bootland also scored for Allen. In addition, Allen received assists from Mike Berube and Ryley Grantham, who contributed one a piece.

The the Cutthroats penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled eight minors and two majors for 26 minutes in penalty time. Denver had been averaging 14.0 minutes in penalties per game. The Cutthroats put 28 shots on net during the contest, more than the 23.5 they average per game.

Denver also got points from Troy Schwab, who also tallied one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. More assists for Denver came via Brad Smyth, Kieran Millan, and Aaron MacKenzie, who each chipped in one.

Aaron Dell rejected 26 shots on goal for the Americans. Allen registered one goal on five power play opportunities. Millan recorded 49 saves for Denver.