The Granite City Lumberjacks had a two-goal lead after two periods and cruised the rest of the way en route to a 6-3 win over the Minnesota Flying Aces.
Granite City was led by Luke Richardson, who tallied one goal. Richardson scored 7:59 into the second period to make the score 4-2 Granite City. Tanner Skaja picked up the assist.
The Lumberjacks were often in penalty trouble, totaling six minors and one major for 27 minutes in penalty time. The total exceeded the 20.0 minutes per game Granite City had been spending in the box. Minnesota was unable to stop the Lumberjacks from sending pucks towards the net, and Granite City eventually piled up 33 shots on goal. Penalties took their toll on the Lumberjacks, as their penalty kill unit let in two power play goals.
Granite City also got points from Skaja, who also registered one goal and two assists to lead the team in points and Jared Sprink, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Granite City also had goals scored by Zach Voss, Mitchell Gwost, and Dallas Marvin, who each put in one. Other players who recorded assists for Granite City were Travis Kothenbeutel, who had two and Corey Taylor, Spencer Nelson, and David Horsmann, who each chipped in one.
The Flying Aces' penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled six minors and one major for 37 minutes in penalty time. Minnesota surpassed its season average of 29.0 penalty minutes per game.
The Flying Aces were helped by Jace Cseter, who grabbed one goal. Cseter scored on the power play 7:05 into the second period to make the score 3-2 Granite City. Minnesota had gained a power play chance when Marvin was whistled for interference. Minnesota additionally got points from Zach Johnston, who also had one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Minnesota also got a goal from Travis Johnston as well. In addition, Minnesota received assists from Blake Neumann, who had one.
Jesse Garcia rejected 14 shots on goal for Granite City. The Lumberjacks registered one goal on three power play opportunities. Matt Douglas recorded 27 saves for the Flying Aces. For Minnesota, Lucas Mickelson was ejected from the game.