The Helena Bighorns tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Great Falls Americans held on for a 3-1 victory.

Great Falls made the score 3-0 on a goal by Cody Page at 7:43 in the third period, and Helena got as close as 3-1 when Georgy Ostapchuk scored 17:39 into the third period.

The Americans were led by goalie Lauren Massie, who finished with 48 saves while allowing one goal. Massie certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 2.27 entering the contest.

Great Falls was led by Lucas Stover, who finished with one goal and one assist. Stover scored 14:14 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Great Falls. Connor Barta provided the assist. Wade Wylie also scored for Great Falls. Other players who recorded assists for Great Falls were Robert Kalata, Michal Kliment, Erik Gatson, and Reed Link, who each chipped in one.

The Bighorns were held below their usual level of production. Helena averages 4.1 goals per game. The Bighorns' offense rang up 49 shots on the Americans' net.

More assists for Helena came via Bryan Knesel and Johnny Bonta, who contributed one each.

Great Falls incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors. Helena's Adam Ranck stopped 23 shots out of the 26 that he faced. The Bighorns incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.