Josh Astorino was superb between the pipes for the Thorold Blackhawks, as he did not allow a goal in a 1-0 victory over the Welland Jr. Canadians.

Anthony Merante's game-winning tally was the game's only goal. It came at 4:50 in the third period. Aaron Nunes assisted on the tally.

Thorold was paced by Merante, who tallied one goal.

The Blackhawks put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Welland to score on any of its five power plays. Thorold forced the Jr. Canadians goalie Chris Janzen to work between the pipes, taking 34 shots.

In addition, Thorold received assists from Nick Sacco, who had one.

Welland did not reach the goal total it has come to expect this season. The Jr. Canadians average 3.0 goals per game. Welland kept the Blackhawks' goalie busy throughout the game, and Astorino made 45 saves on 45 shots.

Thorold incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Janzen recorded 33 saves for the Jr. Canadians. Welland ended with seven minutes in penalty time with one minor and one major. For the Jr. Canadians, Brayden Crowder was ejected from the game.