The Thunder overcame a couple of early deficits to build a 4-2 lead after the first period. Rycroft blasted a power play shot from the left circle that clanked just under the long corner of the net at 1:17 to give Colorado the early lead. Steven Kaunisto responded 25 seconds later, tying the game on the front end of a two-on-one rush. The Eagles went ahead 2-1 at 10:39 on another power play goal, this time with Riley Nelson forcing the puck in the net from around the left post.
At 11:42 in the first, Eagles' forward Alex Penner took a spearing penalty that resulted in a five-minute Thunder power play. Wichita took full advantage, scoring twice to take their first lead of the night. Lance Galbraith re-tied the game at 2-2 at the 12:24 mark, scoring high on a rebound in front of the crease left by Davis. Jesse Bennefield scored in similar fashion 31 seconds later, finishing off a loose puck from Schwab. Wichita made it 4-2 at 17:06 when Dustin Donaghy scored just inside the left post on a centering pass from Chris Greene.
Dan Sullivan's goal at 3:59 in the first pulled the Eagles within one, but Donaghy earned his second of the night at 11:59 to re-extend Wichita's lead. Donaghy, who had just stepped onto the ice to begin a line change, scored under the crossbar from the high slot on a pass from Schwab. Kory Scoran made it 6-3 Thunder at 15:32, scoring on the power play from the left corner. Rycroft again made it a two-goal contest, netting his second of the game with 8.1 seconds left in the period while a delayed penalty was being called against Wichita.
Gelinas saved 26 of 32 in regulation and overtime. Jones took the loss, saving 34 of 40 and two of four in the shootout. Wichita was 3 for 9 on the power play. The Eagles were 4 for 6.
The Thunder heads to Rapid City for a two-game series beginning Friday night at 7:05 p.m.
