The Wolverines came out strong in the first period, capitalizing on an early power play and controlling much of the offensive play. Connor Hasse got UM-Dearborn on the board first at 10:11 with a sharp wrist shot to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Just under seven minutes later, the Wolverines struck again, with Caleb Cathcart scoring on the power play, assisted by Justin Renzi and Brenden Paden, to make it 2-0. UM-Dearborn outshot Cleary 16-7 in the opening frame and seemed in control.

However, Cleary came out with renewed energy in the second period and began to capitalize on their power-play opportunities. The period's first goal came at 12:42 when Dylan Tammadge scored on the power play, assisted by Billy Simms and Wes Smith, cutting the Wolverines' lead to 2-1. Less than two minutes later, Cleary took advantage of another opportunity with a goal from Wes Smith, assisted by Collin Kerchoff, to tie the game at 2-2. The momentum entirely shifted Cleary's way when Tammadge struck again on the power play at 15:35, this time with assists from Wes Smith and Collin Kerchoff, giving Cleary their first lead of the game at 3-2.

UM-Dearborn fought hard to equalize in the third period, outshooting Cleary 22-4 in the final frame, but Cleary's defense and strong goaltending from Nick Meyering held firm. Despite numerous chances, including a few shots that hit the post, the Wolverines couldn't find the back of the net, and the game ended 3-2 in favor of the Cougars.