The Odessa Jackalopes tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Wichita Falls Wildcats held on for a 2-1 victory.

Wichita Falls took a 2-0 lead during the third period, only to have Odessa storm back on a Matt Beranek goal 13:40 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

Ben Kucera had two goals to lead the Wildcats to victory.

The Jackalopes' power play was ineffective against Wichita Falls' penalty kill, which allowed zero goals while shorthanded.

The Wildcats excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in seven chances. Wichita Falls' offense was clicking better than usual and put 34 shots on goal during the game, better than the 29.1 shots per game it averages.

In addition, Wichita Falls received assists from Sam Pzazza, Jack Kelly, Colin Staub, and Josh Haverstrom, who each chipped in one.

Odessa's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Wichita Falls power plays.

More assists for Odessa came via Dylan Adler and Tate Sykes, who contributed one a piece.

Chase Munroe recorded 18 saves for the Wildcats. Wichita Falls incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. The Jackalopes' Eric Hancock stopped 32 shots out of the 34 that he faced. Odessa incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.