The Toledo Cherokee pulled out a 6-5 (OT) overtime victory over the Peoria Mustangs on a clutch goal by Tyler Zalecki.

Although Toledo was up by as many as two goals in the third period, Peoria kept the game interesting by staging a comeback that ultimately fell short. The Mustangs got to within 5-4 on a goal by Nikolas Sakellaropoulos at 10:08 in the third period.

The Cherokee got the win on the strength of a great game by Zalecki, who had two goals and one assist. Zalecki scored the first of his two goals at 13:29 into the second period to make the score 2-2. Jordan Fogarty provided the assist. Zalecki's next tally made the score 6-5 Toledo with 19:16 left in overtime. Fogarty picked up the assist.

Toledo kept Peoria's goalie busy throughout the game, and Alex Reichle made 30 saves on 36 shots. The Cherokee found the back of the net more times than it usually has this season. Toledo averages 3.5 goals per game.

Toledo also got points from Connor Crowe, who also racked up one goal and two assists to lead the team in points and Nicholas Brazeal, who also registered one goal and one assist. Toledo also got a goal from Brody Duncan as well. Other players who recorded assists for Toledo were Andrew Benyo, who had two and Jake Manders, Jordan Prewitt, Brett Podgorski, and Brandon Layman, who contributed one a piece.

The Mustangs bested their season scoring average. Peoria has scored at the pace of 2.9 goals per game during the current campaign. The Mustangs' defensemen played an important role in the offense, chipping in two goals.

Peoria was led by Brennan Anderson, who grabbed one goal and two assists. Anderson scored short handed 19:14 into the third period to make the score 5-5. A checking from behind call on Sakellaropoulos put the Mustangs on the penalty kill. Austin Ziakas also scored for Peoria. In addition, Peoria received assists from Cory Kettler, Alexander Turin, Kevin Gregory Jr, Austin Wisely, Cody Lichtenvoort, and Brendan Murphy, who each chipped in one.

Nathan Miller rejected 22 shots on goal for the Cherokee. Toledo incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Peoria incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.