The Blenheim Blades tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Essex 73s held on for a 4-3 victory.

A goal by Marco Canzoneri put Essex up 4-2 in the third period, but Blenheim pulled to within one on Zach Mailloux's tally 11:49 into the third period.

The 73s got the win behind a great game by Tyler Raymont, who had one goal and two assists. Raymont scored on the power play 9:10 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Essex. Essex had taken the advantage when the Blades' Matt Speed got sent off for slashing. Corey Beaulieu provided the assist.

The 73s' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on six Blenheim power plays. Essex forced Blenheim goalie Dylan Vanderpol to work between the pipes, taking 45 shots.

Essex additionally got points from Canzoneri, who also had one goal and one assist. Dylan Solecki also scored for Essex. Other players who recorded assists for Essex were Jordan Brohman, who had one and Ryan Muzzin, who had two.

More assists for Blenheim came via Tyler Clarke and Trevor Sparks, who contributed one a piece.

Trevor Wheaton recorded 19 saves for the 73s. Essex incurred 22 minutes in penalty time with six minors. The Blades' Vanderpol stopped 41 shots out of the 45 that he faced. Blenheim incurred 22 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Team's Taylor Phillips, Aidan Wiebenga, and Speed were slapped with misconducts and ejected from the game.