The Denver Cutthroats took the lead against the Tulsa Oilers in the first period and maintained it until the end of the game to secure a tight 1-0 victory.

AJ Gale provided Denver with the game-winning tally when he scored 2:45 into the first period. The Cutthroats had gained a power play chance when Eric Tallent was whistled for roughing. Troy Schwab picked up the assist.

After the loss made the series score 3-2 in the best of seven series, Tulsa faces elimination next time out.

Denver was boosted by Kent Patterson, who turned in a shutout with 52 saves. The solid play of Patterson will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 2.66.

The Cutthroats were sparked by Gale, who finished with one goal.

Denver stifled the Oilers' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The Cutthroats forced Tulsa goalie Shane Madolora to work between the pipes, taking 32 shots.

In addition, Denver received assists from Steve Kaunisto, who had one.

The Oilers' offense rang up 52 shots on Denver's net.

Tulsa was led by Ben Gordon, who took 11 shots.

The Cutthroats incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors. Shane Madolora made 31 saves for the Oilers on 32 shots. Tulsa incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.