The Austin Bruins tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Bismarck Bobcats held on for a 3-2 victory.

Bismarck took a 3-0 lead during the second period, only to have Austin storm back on a AJ Reid goal 18:31 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

After the loss made the series score 2-1 in the best of five series, the Bruins face elimination next time out.

The Bobcats' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Austin power plays.

Bismarck was helped by Patrick Moore, who registered one goal. Moore scored on the power play 12:32 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Bismarck. The Bobcats earned a power play opportunity when Charlie Adams was put in the box for slashing. Jeremy OKeefe provided the assist. Bismarck additionally got points from Adam Knochenmus, who also tallied one goal and one assist. Castan Sommer also scored for Bismarck. In addition, Bismarck received assists from Daniel Zawacki, who had two.

Austin also got a goal from Chris Fischer as well. More assists for Austin came via Christian Folin and Trevor Waldoch, who contributed one a piece.

Bismarck's Aaron Nelson stopped 23 shots out of the 25 that he faced. The Bobcats incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Tyler Bruggeman made 17 saves for Austin on 20 shots. The Bruins incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors.