The Columbus Cottonmouths came close to giving away a three-goal lead to the Peoria Rivermen, but did just enough to escape with a 4-2 victory.

Columbus led by three goals at one point and ended with the victory. The largest advantage in the game came when the Cottonmouths' Matt Gingera scored on the power play at 17:50 in the second period to put Columbus up 3-0.

Gingera had a great game for the Cottonmouths, netting two goals.

Columbus put 35 shots on net during the contest, more than the 29.3 it averages per game.

Columbus also had goals scored by Kyle Thomas and Neilsson Arcibal, who each put in one. In addition, Columbus received assists from Nick Curry, Mike Switzer, and Bryce Williamson, who each chipped in one.

The 30 shots that Peoria put on net surpassed the Rivermen's average of 23.2 shots per game this season.

Peoria was helped by Garrett Vermeersch, who tallied one goal. Vermeersch scored 2:19 into the third period to make the score 3-1 Columbus. Josh Harris also scored for Peoria. More assists for Peoria came via Michael Slowikowski and Jake Trask, who contributed one each.

Andrew Loewen recorded 28 saves for the Cottonmouths. Columbus incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. The Rivermen's starting goalie, Kyle Rank, made 22 saves and finished with the loss before he was taken out in favor of Matthew Kinsella, who stopped nine shots. Peoria incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.