The Madison Capitols couldn't overcome a strong offensive showing from the Youngstown Phantoms, falling 5-2 on Saturday night at the Covelli Centre.

After a scoreless first period, Youngstown struck first at 2:11 of the second when Michael Mesic netted his 14th goal of the season. Madison responded midway through the period as Dexter Brooks scored unassisted at 11:38 to even the game. However, the Phantoms reclaimed the lead late in the frame when Luke Osburn made it 2-1 heading into the final period.

Youngstown extended its lead early in the third on a power-play goal from Mesic, his second of the night. The Capitols battled back, with Jet Kwajah finding the back of the net on the man advantage at 7:10, assisted by Colton Jamieson and Ryker Lee. But

Youngstown pulled away late, as Adam Benák added insurance at 12:54 before Brecken Smith sealed the game with an empty-netter.

With the loss, Madison moves to 30-13-2-1 on the season. The Capitols now turn their attention to tomorrow night's game two of the three game series.