Matt Gingera scored the clinching goal in a shootout, and the Columbus Cottonmouths picked up the extra point in a 4-3 (2-1 SO) win over the Louisiana IceGators.

The Cottonmouths' penalty kill excelled, as Columbus gave up one goal despite allowing six power plays.

The Cottonmouths were paced by Gingera, who registered one goal. Gingera scored on the power play 17:30 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Columbus. Columbus had gained a power play chance when Mitchell Stretch was whistled for tripping. Williamson provided the assist.

The Cottonmouths were led by Gingera, who finished with one goal. Others who scored for Columbus included Louis Belisle and Patrick McCadden, who each put in one. In addition, Columbus received assists from Mike Switzer, Robert Davis, and Max Cook, who each chipped in one.

The IceGators relied heavily on their defensemen to assist their forwards, and the blueliners responded by scoring three goals on 15 shots. Louisiana put 37 shots on net during the contest, more than the 25.4 it averages per game.

The IceGators were helped by Kirk Byczynski, who tallied one goal. Byczynski scored 12:37 into the second period to make the score 1-1. Chris Wilson picked up the assist. Louisiana also had goals scored by Tanner Burton and Mike MacIntyre, who scored one goal each. More assists for Louisiana came via Benjamin Rubin, who had two and Stuart, who had three.

Andrew Loewen made 34 saves for Columbus on 37 shots. The Cottonmouths incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Andrew Flemming rejected 20 shots on goal for Louisiana. The IceGators incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.