Owen Sobchak gave the Thorold Blackhawks a 3-2 (OT) victory over the Welland Jr. Canadians when he scored 5:13 into the extra period.

The win gave Thorold a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

The Blackhawks were led by Sobchak, who tallied one goal.

Thorold's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on five Welland power plays. The Blackhawks' offense rang up 50 shots on Welland's net.

Tanner Hildebrandt also scored for Thorold. In addition, Thorold received assists from Joel Forestell, who had two and Matthew Hoszko, Mackenzie Mac Avoy, and Tanner Pagendam, who each chipped in one.

The Jr. Canadians kept Thorold's goalie busy throughout the game, and Evan Buitenhuis made 38 saves on 40 shots.

Welland was helped by Mike Marquis, who grabbed one goal. Marquis scored 17:24 into the first period to make the score 1-1. Ryan Migliaccio assisted on the tally. Welland also got a goal from Braden Curry as well. Other players who recorded assists for Welland were Joe Saracini and Chris Langdon, who contributed one a piece.

The Blackhawks incurred 20 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Matt Coulombe rejected 47 shots on goal for the Jr. Canadians. Welland incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.