The Fayetteville FireAntz rallied from three goals down to secure a 5-4 win over the Knoxville Ice Bears.

Fayetteville never led in the game until netting the game winner. The FireAntz fell behind 3-0 after a goal by Knoxville's Eric Satim at 15:46 in the first period. Fayetteville tied things up at 3-3 on a power play goal by Andrew Smale at 19:57 in the second period. The FireAntz netted the game winner at 5:55 in the third period on a goal by Smale.

Smale was all over the ice for Fayetteville, as he registered two goals in the win.

The FireAntz's defensemen played well offensively, producing two goals while racking up 12 shots.

Fayetteville additionally got points from John Clewlow, who also grabbed one goal and two assists and Ben Contini, who also tallied one goal and two assists to lead the team in points. Bobby Reed also scored for Fayetteville. More assists for Fayetteville came via Corey Toy, Brian Elser, and Anthony Bergin, who contributed one a piece.

The Ice Bears kept Fayetteville's goalie busy throughout the game, and Shane Madolora made 34 saves on 38 shots.

Knoxville was helped by Berkley Scott, who racked up one goal and one assist. Scott scored on the power play 14:07 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Knoxville. The Ice Bears had gained a power play chance when Bergin was whistled for holding stick. Emery Olauson provided the assist. Knoxville also got a goal from Peter Neal as well. In addition, Knoxville received assists from Ricky Helmbrecht, Tyler Fernandez, and Brett Valliquette, who each chipped in one.

The FireAntz totaled 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 1-for-4 on the power play. Connor Toomey recorded 24 saves for Knoxville. The Ice Bears totaled 15 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 1-for-4 on the power play.