The Pickering Panthers tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Newmarket Hurricanes held on for a 5-4 victory.

Newmarket took a 5-2 lead during the second period, only to have Pickering storm back on a Mike Nedoszytko goal 12:59 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

The Hurricanes were paced by Brandon Francisco, who grabbed one goal and one assist. Francisco scored 10:17 into the second period to make the score Newmarket. Trevor Petersen picked up the assist.

Newmarket also got points from Petersen, who also registered one goal and one assist. Others who scored for Newmarket included Oshowy Jordan, Curtis Harvey, and Adam Smith, who each put in one. In addition, Newmarket received assists from Sam Hu and Ian Farrell, who each chipped in one and Cameron Nicoll and Justin Maiolino, who contributed two a piece.

The Panthers forced Newmarket goalie Bo Bessette to work between the pipes, taking 36 shots.

Pickering additionally got points from Brodie Tutton, who also finished with one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Pickering also got a goal from Michael Walker as well. Other players who recorded assists for Pickering were Mason Evans, Tanner Shaw, and Nicholas Lepone, who each chipped in one.

Bo Bessette made 32 saves for the Hurricanes on 36 shots. Newmarket incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Pickering took out Steven Dombrosky after he had made six saves and installed Greg Zupan in goal, where he finished with 18 saves and the loss. The Panthers incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors.