The Corpus Christi IceRays tripped up the Shreveport Mudbugs, 2-0 to take a 1-0 series lead in the best of five series.
Griffin Loughran wristed a shot past Dyllan Lubbesmeyer to give the Ice Rays an early 1-0 lead at the 9:21 mark of the 1st period.
The Mudbugs pushed and pressed all night, but Tomas Vomacka was strong in nets with 31 saves on the night.
Both teams were 0 for 3 on the powerplay. Brad Power tapped in an empty netter at the 18:23 mark of the 3rd period to seal the win for Corpus Christi.
Game 2 will be tomorrow night back at Georges Pond. Puck drop is scheduled is 7:11pm.