The Brookings Blizzard tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Bismarck Bobcats held on for a 2-1 victory.

A goal by Joe Giordano put Bismarck up 2-0 in the second period, but Brookings pulled to within one on Jeff McFarland's tally 6:13 into the third period.

The Bobcats' Aaron Nelson was a brick wall in net, as he came up with 38 saves and let only one puck past him. Nelson certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 1.79 entering the contest.

Bismarck put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Blizzard to score on any of their five power plays.

Mike Dockry also scored for Bismarck. In addition, Bismarck received assists from Levi Blom, Bob Kinne, Filip Starzynski, and Cory Chapman, who contributed one a piece.

Brookings forced the Bobcats goalie Nelson to work between the pipes, taking 39 shots.

More assists for Brookings came via Nick DeCenzo and Erick Majerle, who each chipped in one.

Bismarck incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Erick Majerle made 23 saves for the Blizzard on 25 shots. Brookings incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors.