The Columbus Cottonmouths tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Huntsville Havoc held on for a 3-2 victory.

Huntsville made the score 3-1 on a goal by Justin Fox at 5:41 in the third period, and Columbus got as close as 3-2 when Neilsson Arcibal scored 19:17 into the third period.

Fox was all over the ice for the Havoc, as he tallied one goal and two assists in the win.

Huntsville excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances.

Huntsville also got points from Justin Cseter, who also finished with one goal and one assist. Dominic Osman also scored for Huntsville. In addition, Huntsville received assists from Leland Fidler, who had one and Mike Gurtler, who had two.

The Cottonmouths stifled the Havoc's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. By firing 32 shots on goal, Columbus exceeded the 24.4 shots it averages per game this year.

The Cottonmouths were helped by Michael Switzer, who had one goal. Switzer scored 46 seconds into the third period to make the score 2-1 Huntsville. Preston Shupe provided the assist. Other players who recorded assists for Columbus were Tom Maldonado and Sam Bowles, who contributed one a piece.

Kevin Genoe made 30 saves for Huntsville on 32 shots. The Havoc totaled 16 minutes in penalty time with three minors and two majors and went 0-for-3 on the power play. Travis Bosch rejected 23 shots on goal for Columbus. The Cottonmouths ended with 16 minutes in penalty time with three minors and two majors.