In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Thorold Blackhawks escaped with a 4-2 victory over the Welland Jr. Canadians.

Thorold gained the winning advantage on a goal by Myles Falasca 53 seconds into the second period and hung on until final buzzer.

The Blackhawks pulled out the victory even though they were hit with 12 penalty minutes.

Thorold was sparked by Ben Hughes, who registered one goal. Hughes scored on the power play 10:26 into the second period to make the score 3-1 Thorold. The Blackhawks earned a power play opportunity when Matthew Mateljan was put in the box for hooking. Mark Arnone provided the assist.

Thorold put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Welland to score on any of its six power plays. The Jr. Canadians were unable to stop the Blackhawks from sending pucks towards the net, and Thorold eventually piled up 40 shots on goal.

Matthew Hoszko also scored for Thorold. Other players who recorded assists for Thorold were Brian Brosnan, Joel Forestell, Vince Dunn, Roger Sherwood, Joe DiBiasi, and Tanner Pagendam, who each chipped in one.

Welland's offense rang up 36 shots on the Blackhawks' net.

The Jr. Canadians were helped by Braden Curry, who grabbed one goal. Curry scored 4:33 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Thorold. Chris Langdon picked up the assist. Welland also got a goal from Drake Lynds as well. In addition, Welland received assists from Chris Brown, Jason Lacroix, and Daryl Thomson, who contributed one a piece.

Vinny Merante rejected 34 shots on goal for Thorold. The Blackhawks registered two goals on five power play opportunities. Matt Coulombe recorded 36 saves for Welland. The Jr. Canadians incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.