A four-goal first period deficit cost the Great Falls Americans, which could not recover and fell to the Gillette Wild, 6-0.

Nick Vittori frustrated Great Falls' offense all game, and stopped 26 shots en route to a shutout. The solid play of Vittori will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 3.52.

Gillette was led by Brandon Castleberry, who finished with one goal. Castleberry scored 2:03 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Gillette.

The Wild stifled the Americans' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Gillette forced Great Falls goalie Erik Powell to work between the pipes, taking 40 shots. The Wild got an offensive boost from their blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game.

Gillette additionally got points from Moco Willis, who also racked up two goals and one assist, Matt Rose, who also had one goal and one assist, and Tyler Cavan, who also registered two goals and one assist. More assists for Gillette came via Taylor Motsinger, who had three and Ronnie Wilshusen and Steve Patafio, who each chipped in one.

The Americans racked up the penalties in the contest, and ended with seven minors and one major for 29 minutes in penalty time. The total exceeded the 19.0 minutes per game Great Falls had been spending in the box. The Americans were held below their usual level of production. Great Falls puts an average of 2.7 pucks into the net per game.

Gillette incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Erik Powell made 34 saves for the Americans on 40 shots. Great Falls registered zero goals on four power play opportunities.