The Michigan Mountain Cats tried their best to erase a three-goal deficit, but the xPittsburgh Vengeance would not be denied the victory and hung on to win, 3-1.

xPittsburgh made the score 3-0 on a goal by Michael Straub at 19:00 in the second period, and Michigan got as close as 3-1 when Zach Collins scored 3:27 into the third period.

The Vengeance were led by goalie Chase Stanford, who finished with 30 saves while allowing one goal. The solid play of Stanford will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 1.82.

The Mountain Cats were unable to stop xPittsburgh from sending pucks towards the net, and the Vengeance eventually piled up 59 shots on goal. xPittsburgh's power play was punchless, and failed to score a single goal despite having 11 power play opportunities.

The Vengeance were led by Alex Berardinelli, who registered one goal and one assist. Berardinelli scored short handed 6:04 into the first period to make the score 2-0 xPittsburgh. A boarding call on Oskar Thorsen put xPittsburgh on the penalty kill. Cody Black picked up the assist. xPittsburgh also got a goal from Tom Diffendal as well. In addition, xPittsburgh received assists from Eli Lynn and Jake Parry, who each chipped in one.

Michigan stifled the Vengeance's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The Mountain Cats forced xPittsburgh goalie Stanford to work between the pipes, taking 31 shots. Michigan could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 34 minutes in penalties during the game.

More assists for Michigan came via John Arms and Abram Prince, who contributed one a piece.

The Vengeance incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Kevin OShea recorded 56 saves for the Mountain Cats. Michigan registered one goal on six power play opportunities.