The Madison Capitols and Youngstown Phantoms took the ice on Thursday night in the first of a three-game set. Madison entered the night sixth in the Eastern Conference, battling for position in the Clark Cup Playoffs, while Youngstown owns the league's best record and have already clinched a playoff berth.

Despite being out shot 27-16, Madison struck first as Eero Butella connected on a one-timer set up by Max Rider for his first goal in a Capitols jersey. Butella had the lone goal of the opening frame. Madison extended its lead to two in the second period as Tampere, Finland, product Ville Vaarala recorded his sixth goal of the season.

Youngstown was unable to answer Madison's goals in the third period, resulting in a 2-0 win for the Capitols.

Cash Cruitt kept the crease clean for Madison. The 6-foot-5 rookie recorded his first USHL shutout, denying all 27 shots he faced from a team that averages nearly four goals per game.

Thursday night's win also marked Andy Brandt's 100th USHL victory as a head coach.