The Fayetteville FireAntz gutted out a close 3-2 win against the Knoxville Ice Bears.

Neither team gained more than a one-goal lead, and Bobby Reed's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.

Fayetteville was led by Reed, who registered one goal. Reed scored on the power play 2:42 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Fayetteville. The FireAntz had gained a power play chance when Jeremy Klaver was whistled for tripping. Mike Kavanagh provided the assist.

Fayetteville additionally got points from Brandon Richardson, who also tallied one goal and one assist. Derek Elliott also scored for Fayetteville. Other players who recorded assists for Fayetteville were Mike Gurtler, Josh McQuade, and Andrew Smale, who each chipped in one.

Knoxville was helped by Jon Higgins, who grabbed one goal. Higgins scored on the power play 14:16 into the first period to make the score 1-1. The Ice Bears had taken the advantage when Fayetteville's Elliott got sent off for hooking. Nate Peterson picked up the assist. Knoxville also got a goal from Tyler Fernandez as well. In addition, Knoxville received assists from Mark Van Vliet and Emery Olauson, who contributed one a piece.

The FireAntz's Marco Emond stopped 24 shots out of the 26 that he faced. Fayetteville incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. Peter Skoggard made 25 saves for Knoxville on 28 shots. The Ice Bears incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.