The Hutchinson Tigers survived a determined comeback attempt by the New Ulm Eagles on the way to a 3-2 win.

Hutchinson took a 3-0 lead during the second period, only to have New Ulm storm back on a Judd Davis goal 13:28 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

The win gave the Tigers a 1-0 lead in the best of one series.

Hutchinson was sparked by Matthew Cowger, who registered one goal. Cowger scored 6:45 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Hutchinson. Austin Mandelkow picked up the assist.

The Eagles were unable to stop the Tigers from sending pucks towards the net, and Hutchinson eventually piled up 39 shots on goal. Team's forwards weren't the only contributers offensively, and the team's defensemen showcased their scoring touch with two goals.

Hutchinson also got a goal from Tory Adams as well. More assists for Hutchinson came via Logan Goosen and Cody Nielson, who each chipped in one.

New Ulm's offense rang up 32 shots on the Tigers' net. The Eagles did not rack up many penalties in the contest, totaling a minimal one minor for two minutes in penalty time.

In addition, New Ulm received assists from Lucas Heiderscheidt and Blake Neumann, who contributed one a piece.

Hutchinson's Kellyn Buss stopped 30 shots out of the 32 that he faced. The Tigers incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Brach Kraus rejected 36 shots on goal for New Ulm. The Eagles registered one goal on three power play opportunities.