The Columbus Cottonmouths survived a determined comeback attempt by Mississippi RiverKings on the way to a 3-2 win.

Columbus made the score 3-0 on a goal by Kyle Thomas at 14:26 in the second period, and Mississippi RiverKings got as close as 3-2 when Matt Whitehead scored 17:29 into the third period.

Bryce Williamson was all over the ice for the Cottonmouths, as he racked up two goals in the win. Williamson's tallies came at 42 seconds into the first period to make the score 1-0 Columbus and 13:55 into the second to make the score 2-0 Columbus.

Columbus excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in six chances. The Cottonmouths were below their usual level of shot production, taking 20 shots compared to the 27.7 Columbus averages.

In addition, Columbus received assists from Nick Curry and Chris Bailer, who each chipped in one and Matt Gingera and Neilsson Arcibal, who contributed two each.

Mississippi RiverKings put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Cottonmouths to score on any of their five power plays. The 44 shots that Mississippi RiverKings put on net surpassed Mississippi RiverKings' average of 30.7 shots per game this season.

Mississippi RiverKings also got a goal from Bryon Paulazzo as well. More assists for Mississippi RiverKings came via Devin Mantha, who had one and Dylan Quaile, who had two.

Shannon Szabados made 42 saves for Columbus on 44 shots. The Cottonmouths incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Peter Di Salvo recorded 17 saves for Mississippi RiverKings. Mississippi RiverKings incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.