The Huntsville Havoc gutted out a close 3-2 win against the Fayetteville FireAntz.

Huntsville gained the winning advantage on a goal by Matt Smyth 8:34 into the third period and hung on until final buzzer.

The Havoc pulled out the victory even though they were hit with 21 penalty minutes.

Huntsville was sparked by Smyth, who grabbed one goal.

The Havoc excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in seven chances.

Huntsville also got a goal from Ryan Maunu as well. More assists for Huntsville came via Colin Reddin, who had two and Stuart Stefan, Ray Ortiz, Shane Hart, and Bill Baker, who each chipped in one.

The Fayetteville penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled seven minors and two majors for 34 minutes in penalty time. The FireAntz had been averaging 16.0 minutes in penalties per game. Fayetteville put 45 shots on net during the contest, more than the 34.2 it averages per game.

The FireAntz were helped by Justin Faryna, who had one goal. Faryna scored 7:51 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Fayetteville. Derek Elliott picked up the assist. Josh McQuade also scored for Fayetteville. In addition, Fayetteville received assists from Mike Gurtler, Kyle Frieday, and Tristin Llewellyn, who contributed one a piece.

Dan McWhinney rejected 43 shots on goal for Huntsville. The Havoc registered one goal on seven power play opportunities. Marco Emond recorded 19 saves for Fayetteville.