The Columbus Cottonmouths survived a determined comeback attempt by the Pensacola Ice Flyers on the way to a 4-3 win.

Columbus made the score 4-2 on a goal by John Jackson at 15:36 in the third period, and Pensacola got as close as 4-3 when Adam Pawlick scored 18:03 into the third period.

The Cottonmouths were led by Jackson, who tallied one goal.

Columbus also had goals scored by Patrick McCadden, Chris Rial, and Kyle Shapiro, who scored one goal each. Other players who recorded assists for Columbus were Kyle Johnson, Ben OQuinn, Louis Belisle, and Cody Freeman, who each chipped in one and Andy Bathgate and Andy Willigar, who contributed two each.

The Ice Flyers' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Columbus power plays. Pensacola put 44 shots on net during the contest, more than the 30.8 it averages per game.

The Ice Flyers were helped by Brandon Blair, who registered one goal. Blair scored 2:09 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Pensacola. John Clewlow picked up the assist. Corey Banfield also scored for Pensacola. More assists for Pensacola came via Ryan Kesti, who had two and Cole Ruwe, Phil Tesoriero, and Joe Caveney, who each chipped in one.

Brandon Jaeger rejected 41 shots on goal for Columbus. John McLean made 25 saves for Pensacola on 29 shots. The Ice Flyers incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors and had no power play opportunities.