The Denver Cutthroats relied on the sparkling performance of Kieran Millan in net to grab a 2-1 win against the Allen Americans.

The win gave Denver a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

The Cutthroats pulled out the victory even though they were hit with 20 penalty minutes.

Denver was led by Mikael Bedard, who tallied one goal. Bedard scored 16:28 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Denver. Luke Fulghum assisted on the tally.

Denver also got a goal from Ben Wilson as well. In addition, Denver received assists from Jamie MacQueen and Gabe Gauthier, who each chipped in one.

Allen forced the Cutthroats goalie Millan to work between the pipes, taking 35 shots.

The Americans were led by Bryce Aneloski, who scored the team's only goal. Aneloski scored on the power play 9:38 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Allen. Allen had taken the advantage when Denver's MacQueen got sent off for hooking. Darryl Bootland provided the assist.

Millan rejected 34 shots on goal for the Cutthroats. Denver registered one goal on four power play opportunities. Aaron Dell recorded 14 saves for the Americans. Allen incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with nine minors.