The Cobourg Cougars survived a determined comeback attempt by the Markham Royals on the way to a 3-2 win.

A goal by Brett Primeau put Cobourg up 3-1 in the third period, but Markham pulled to within one on Khadyn Butterfly's tally 14:22 into the third period.

The Cougars pulled out the victory even though they were hit with 24 penalty minutes.

Cobourg also had goals scored by Connor Inger and Matt Carroll, who scored one goal each. More assists for Cobourg came via Matt Watson, Rory Milne, and Brenden Locke, who contributed one each.

The Royals stifled Cobourg's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Markham forced the Cougars goalie Stefano Durante to work between the pipes, taking 34 shots.

The Royals were helped by Aaron Spivak, who registered one goal. Spivak scored on the power play 4:54 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Markham. Markham had gained a power play chance when Patrick MacDonald was whistled for boarding. Tyson Bruce assisted on the tally. In addition, Markham received assists from Matthew Dunlop, who had two.

Durante rejected 32 shots on goal for Cobourg. The Cougars registered zero goals on three power play opportunities. The Royals' Nathan Colitto stopped 23 shots out of the 26 that he faced. Markham incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.