M2 Northern Illinois University tried to dig itself out of a three-goal hole, but M2 Missouri State University held on for a 3-2 victory.

A goal by Connor Millard put M2 Missouri State University up 3-0 in the third period, but M2 Northern Illinois University pulled to within one on Justin Rucinski's tally 19:44 into the third period.

M2 Missouri State University put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow M2 Northern Illinois University to score on any of its four power plays. M2 Missouri State University's offense operated below its season average. M2 Missouri State University puts an average of 6.1 pucks into the net per game. By firing 46 shots on goal, M2 Missouri State University exceeded the 0.1 shots it averages per game this year.

M2 Missouri State University was helped by Nick Sadorf, who finished with one goal. Sadorf scored on the power play 12:59 into the second period to make the score 2-0 M2 Missouri State University. M2 Missouri State University had gained a power play chance when Brian Pounds was whistled for charging. Jack Ryan picked up the assist. Richard Westcott also scored for M2 Missouri State University. In addition, M2 Missouri State University received assists from Eric Aldag, Adam Otten, Brendan McClew, and Alex Nanna, who each chipped in one.

M2 Northern Illinois University did not reach the goal total it has come to expect this season. M2 Northern Illinois University averages 4.9 goals per game. M2 Northern Illinois University's offense rang up 44 shots on M2 Missouri State University's net.

M2 Northern Illinois University was led by Joe Serpico, who racked up one goal and one assist. Serpico scored 19:09 into the third period to make the score 3-1 M2 Missouri State University.

Stephen Lombardo made 42 saves for M2 Missouri State University on 44 shots. M2 Missouri State University incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. M2 Northern Illinois University's Alex Hare stopped 43 shots out of the 46 that he faced. M2 Northern Illinois University incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.