In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the West Michigan Wolves escaped with a 5-3 victory over the Toledo Cherokee.

No lead was more than two goals during the contest, and the winning goal was scored by Michael Tratar at 18:24 of the third period.

Dakota Ulmer had a great game for West Michigan, netting two goals. Ulmer scored at 4:59 into the first period to make the score 1-0 West Michigan and again while 19:19 into the second to make the score 3-2 West Michigan.

Toledo was unable to stop the Wolves from sending pucks towards the net, and West Michigan eventually piled up 45 shots on goal. Penalties took their toll on the Wolves, as their penalty kill unit let in three power play goals.

West Michigan also had goals scored by Zack Lloyd and Benjamin Sera, who scored one goal each. In addition, West Michigan received assists from Corey Siwula, who had two and Matt Shultz, Mike Difranco, Kyle Keeder, and Devin Farkas, who contributed one each.

The Cherokee's defense let in more goals than it usually has this year. Toledo gives up 2.4 goals per game.

The Cherokee were helped by Brody Duncan, who had one goal. Duncan scored on the power play 14:45 into the third period to make the score 3-3. Toledo had taken the advantage when West Michigan's Siwula got sent off for boarding. Cody Estrel assisted on the tally. Toledo additionally got points from Tyler Zalecki, who also registered one goal and one assist. Toledo also got a goal from Cam Schwartz as well. More assists for Toledo came via Evan Heldt, Zach Swanson, and Mark McGee, who each chipped in one.

The Wolves' Chase Stanford stopped 18 shots out of the 21 that he faced. West Michigan incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Aaron Callan made 40 saves for the Cherokee on 44 shots. Toledo incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors.