A stellar performance between the pipes by Dalen Kuchmey helped the Strathroy Rockets defeat the LaSalle Vipers, 2-1.

After the loss made the series score 3-2 in the best of seven series, LaSalle faces elimination next time out.

Strathroy was sparked by Shawn Grogan, who tallied one goal. Grogan scored 14:35 into the third period to make the score 2-1 Strathroy. Max Naus provided the assist.

Referees had their hands full with a major incident at 10:28 into the second period. Four fighting penalties were dished out along with two game misconducts.

The Rockets stifled the Vipers' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Chase Thornton also scored for Strathroy. In addition, Strathroy received assists from Tyler Duarte, Trevor Dulong, and Tyler Coleman, who each chipped in one.

LaSalle's offense rang up 37 shots on Strathroy's net.

The Vipers were led by Korey Morgan, who scored the team's only goal. Morgan scored 18:54 into the first period to make the score 1-0 LaSalle. Patrick Murphy picked up the assist.

Dalen Kuchmey made 36 saves for the Rockets on 37 shots. Strathroy totaled 27 minutes in penalty time with six minors and one major and went 1-for-4 on the power play. For the Rockets, Matthew Watson was ejected from the game. Taylor Speed rejected 15 shots on goal for LaSalle. The Vipers totaled 25 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 0-for-5 on the power play. LaSalle ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Chad Shepley was ejected from the game.