The Toledo Cherokee gutted out a close 5-3 win against the Cincinnati Swords.

Each team kept the other at bay throughout the game, and Brody Duncan secured the win for Toledo with a goal in the second period.

Cody Estrel had two goals to lead the Cherokee to victory. Estrel found the back of the net on the power play 7:06 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Toledo and again while short handed 6:17 into the second to make the score 3-3.

Toledo pulled out the victory even though it was hit with 34 penalty minutes.

The Cherokee's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on 13 Cincinnati power plays. Cincinnati was unable to stop Toledo from sending pucks towards the net, and the Cherokee eventually piled up 31 shots on goal.

Toledo also had goals scored by Dominic Pisanti and Cane Maison, who scored one goal each. Other players who recorded assists for Toledo were Aaron Roschinsky, who had one, David Bogart, who had three, and Tyler Zalecki, Kyler Omey, and Jimmy Howell, who each chipped in two.

The Swords' penalty killing units received substantial work throughout the game as Cincinnati finished with 30 penalty minutes.

The Swords were helped by Marc Anderson, who finished with one goal. Anderson scored 15:44 into the first period to make the score 2-2. Cincinnati additionally got points from Hunter Schneider, who also grabbed one goal and one assist. Cincinnati also got a goal from Ramsey Mayne as well. In addition, Cincinnati received assists from Brett Mory, who had one and Andrew Bond, who had two.

Toledo took out Glen Bates after he had made 10 saves and installed Aaron Callan in goal, where he finished with 16 saves and the win. The Cherokee registered two goals on 11 power play opportunities. Brandon Kruger rejected 26 shots on goal for Cincinnati.