The Stratford Cullitons tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Elmira Sugar Kings held on for a 2-1 victory.

Elmira took a 2-0 lead during the second period, only to have Stratford storm back on a Pat Clifford goal 6:12 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

With the win, the Sugar Kings evened the series at 1-1 in the best of seven showdown.

Elmira was led by goalie Nick Horrigan, who finished with 35 saves while allowing one goal. The solid play of Horrigan will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 1.68.

The Sugar Kings' offense rang up 41 shots on the Cullitons' net.

Elmira was helped by Michael Hasson, who grabbed one goal. Hasson scored on the power play 14:37 into the second period to make the score Elmira. The Sugar Kings had gained a power play chance when Andrew Lorimer was whistled for holding. Riley Sonnenburg picked up the assist. Lukas Baleshta also scored for Elmira. In addition, Elmira received assists from Clayton Greer, who had one and Colton Wolfe-Sabo, who had two.

Elmira was unable to stop Stratford from sending pucks towards the net, and the Cullitons eventually piled up 36 shots on goal.

More assists for Stratford came via Ray Huether and Jordan Currie, who each chipped in one.

The Sugar Kings incurred 26 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. Jesse Raymond recorded 39 saves for Stratford. The Cullitons incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with nine minors.