Independence, MO — The Kansas City Mavericks took control of their first-round series Thursday night, earning a clinical 2-0 win over the Tulsa Oilers in Game 5 at the BOK Center. With the win, the Mavericks now lead the series 3-1, putting them one win away from moving on in the Kelly Cup Playoffs.
Marcus Crawford put Kansas City on the board in the first period at 8:54, ripping home a feed from Jackson Berezowski and David Cotton.
After a scoreless second frame, Justin MacPherson added breathing room with a goal at 8:36 of the third, assisted by Max Andreev.
Jack LaFontaine was rock solid in goal, stopping all 29 shots he faced for a playoff shutout — his third win in the series.
Despite being outshot 29-21, Kansas City stayed composed defensively and made the most of their opportunities, holding off Tulsa’s push late.
The Mavericks will have a chance to clinch the series on the road in Game 5, set for Friday night at 7:05 p.m. at the BOK Center in Tulsa.