The Wellington Dukes tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Cobourg Cougars held on for a 4-2 victory.

A goal by Liam Grande put Cobourg up 4-1 in the third period, but Wellington pulled to within two on Chad Thibodeau's tally 6:52 into the third period.

The win gave the Cougars a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Mark MacAulay had a great game for Cobourg, netting two goals. MacAulay scored at 16:44 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Cobourg and again while short handed 14:21 into the second to make the score 3-1 Cobourg.

The Cougars forced the Dukes goalie Tyson Teichmann to work between the pipes, taking 34 shots. Cobourg was effective with a man advantage, and put in two goals while on the power play.

Cobourg also got a goal from Mason Marchment as well. In addition, Cobourg received assists from Connor Armour, who had two and Rylee McKinnon, Alex D Oliveira, Ryan Logan, Connor Hogg, and Taylor Gauld, who contributed one each.

The Cougars were unable to stop Wellington from sending pucks towards the net, and the Dukes eventually piled up 39 shots on goal.

Wellington was led by Abbott Girduckis, who had one goal and one assist. Girduckis scored on the power play 2:51 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Cobourg. The Dukes earned a power play opportunity when Ryan OGrady was put in the box for interference. Mike Robinson provided the assist. More assists for Wellington came via Mike Soucier and Joe McKeown, who each chipped in one.

Nathan Perry rejected 37 shots on goal for Cobourg. The Cougars incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Teichmann recorded 30 saves for Wellington. The Dukes incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with two minors.