The Michigan Warriors tried to dig themselves out of a four-goal hole, but the Johnstown Tomahawks held on for a 4-2 victory.

Johnstown made the score 4-0 on a goal by Jordan Watt at 14:28 in the second period, and Michigan got as close as 4-2 when Darren McCormick scored 14:14 into the third period.

Jesse Kessler was all over the ice for the Tomahawks, as he tallied one goal and two assists in the win. Kessler scored on the power play 9:27 into the second period to make the score 3-0 Johnstown. Johnstown had taken the advantage when the Warriors' Corey Schueneman got sent off for slashing. Cody Gylling picked up the assist.

The Tomahawks found themselves short handed often, totaling 23 penalty minutes and allowing five power plays. Team's forwards weren't the only contributers offensively, and the team's defensemen showcased their scoring touch with two goals.

Johnstown additionally got points from Casey Nelson, who also tallied one goal and one assist. Brandon Reinholz also scored for Johnstown. More assists for Johnstown came via Mike Sandor, who had one.

Michigan forced its penalty killing units to work especially hard during the game, picking up 10 minors and one major for 25 minutes in penalty time. The Warriors surpassed its season average of 16.0 penalty minutes per game. Michigan put 29 shots on net during the contest, more than the 21.9 it averages per game.

Michigan also got a goal from Connor Lyons as well. In addition, Michigan received assists from Robert Click, who had one and Martin Gruse, who had two.

Collin Brennan recorded 27 saves for Johnstown. The Tomahawks registered two goals on six power play opportunities. The Warriors' Michael Pesendorfer stopped 20 shots out of the 24 that he faced.