Three periods of regulation and an overtime session were not enough to settle matters as the Dresden Kings defeated the Essex 73s in a shootout 4-3 (2-1 SO).

The two teams needed 10 turns to complete the shootout. Essex's shootout goal was scored by Phil Janikowski. Dresden's other shootout goal was scored by Dillon Liberty.

The Kings excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in five chances. The 73s were unable to stop Dresden from sending pucks towards the net, and the Kings eventually piled up 33 shots on goal.

Dresden was led by Derek Daly, who had one goal and one assist. Daly scored 14:10 into the third period to make the score 2-2. Justin Delgado assisted on the tally. Dresden also had goals scored by Ross Krieger and Steven Funk, who scored one goal each. In addition, Dresden received assists from Lucas Little, Liberty, Nate Sabourin, and John Montgomery, who contributed one each.

Essex kept the Kings' goalie busy throughout the game, and Scott Tricker made 44 saves on 47 shots.

The 73s were helped by Tyler Turner, who grabbed one goal. Turner scored 12:27 into the third period to make the score 2-1 Essex. Tyler Scott picked up the assist. Others who scored for Essex included Jordan Ryan and Scott Bromley, who each put in one. More assists for Essex came via William Stadder, Matthew Hebert, and Janikowski, who each chipped in one.

Dresden incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors. Colin Lauzon recorded 29 saves for Essex. The 73s incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. For Essex, Matthew Rosati was ejected from the game.