The Knoxville Ice Bears tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Columbus Cottonmouths held on for a 3-2 victory.

Columbus made the score 3-0 on a goal by Ben OQuinn at 14:10 in the first period, and Knoxville got as close as 3-2 when Jake Johnson scored 16:43 into the third period.

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

The Cottonmouths stifled the Ice Bears' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Columbus was helped by Bryce Williamson, who had one goal. Williamson scored 5:19 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Columbus. Matt Gingera picked up the assist. Columbus also got points from Gingera, who also registered one goal and one assist. In addition, Columbus received assists from Tyler MacPherson, Craig Simchuk, Mike Switzer, and Neilsson Arcibal, who each chipped in one.

By firing 24 shots on goal, Knoxville exceeded the 19.3 shots it averages per game this year.

Lou Educate also scored for Knoxville. More assists for Knoxville came via Ryan Hill, Ben Power, and Eric Satim, who contributed one each.

Andrew Loewen made 22 saves for the Cottonmouths on 24 shots. Columbus incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Bryan Hince rejected 27 shots on goal for the Ice Bears. Knoxville incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.