Gillette almost clawed its way back from a three-goal deficit, but Missoula managed to pull out a 4-2 win in the end.

Missoula led by three goals at one point and ended with the victory. The largest advantage in the game came when Missoula's Corey Schafer's scored short handed at 11:07 in the second period to put Missoula up 3-0.

The win gave Missoula a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Schafer had two goals and one assist to lead Missoula. Schafer scored the first of his two goals at 1:27 into the second period to make the score 1-0 Missoula. Ian Johnson provided the assist. Schafer's next tally made the score Missoula with 8:53 left in the second period. Missoula played down a man on Blair Murphy's cross checking.

Missoula's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Gillette power plays. Missoula forced Gillette goalie Grant Friesen to work between the pipes, taking 50 shots.

Missoula additionally got points from Zach Paisley, who also registered one goal and one assist. Missoula also got a goal from Brett Mathews as well. Other players who recorded assists for Missoula were Will Stawinski and Anders Nord, who contributed one a piece.

Gillette excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances.

Gillette was helped by Stanislav Izvekov, who finished with one goal. Izvekov scored 12:41 into the second period to make the score 3-1 Missoula. Casey Moneer picked up the assist. John Burke also scored for Gillette. In addition, Gillette received assists from Trent Dillinger, who had one.

McKinlee Baum made 23 saves for Missoula on 25 shots. Missoula ended with 38 minutes in penalty time with four minors and four majors. For Missoula, Stawinski was ejected from the game. Friesen rejected 46 shots on goal for Gillette. Gillette ended with 23 minutes in penalty time with four minors and three majors.