The Huntsville Havoc tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Columbus Cottonmouths held on for a 2-1 victory.

Columbus took a 2-0 lead during the second period, only to have Huntsville storm back on a Mike Gurtler goal 19:01 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

The Havoc were stymied by the Cottonmouths netminder Andrew Loewen, who stopped 42 shots during the victory. Loewen managed to improve on his goals against average, which stood at 2.97 prior to the game.

Columbus put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Huntsville to score on any of its four power plays. The Cottonmouths' offense was clicking better than usual and put 30 shots on goal during the game, better than the 25.2 shots per game they average.

Columbus was helped by Will Aide, who registered one goal. Aide scored 24 seconds into the second period to make the score Columbus. Columbus also got a goal from Sam Bowles as well. In addition, Columbus received assists from Tom Maldonado and Jason Gray, who contributed one a piece.

The Havoc could not produce up to they normal offensive output. Huntsville averages 3.6 goals per game. The Havoc forced the Cottonmouths goalie Loewen to work between the pipes, taking 43 shots.

More assists for Huntsville came via Stuart Stefan and Justin Cseter, who each chipped in one.

Columbus totaled 17 minutes in penalty time with six minors and one major and went 1-for-2 on the power play. Jesse Kallechy recorded 28 saves for Huntsville. The Havoc ended with 23 minutes in penalty time with four minors and one major. For Huntsville, Gurtler was ejected from the game.