Nathan Ferris scored the go-ahead goal in the first period, and the Welland Jr. Canadians held off the challenges of the Thorold Blackhawks in a tough 2-1 win.

Welland took over the lead for good with a goal by Ferris at 15:47 in the first period. The Jr. Canadians had gotten the advantage when Thorold's Cal Davis was sent off for high sticking. Brayden Crowder picked up the assist.

The Blackhawks were stymied by Welland's netminder Chris Janzen, who stopped 51 shots during the victory. Janzen certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 2.24 entering the contest.

The Jr. Canadians were led by Andy Paul, who grabbed one goal. Paul scored 27 seconds into the second period to make the score 2-0 Welland. Matt Martin provided the assist.

Welland stifled Thorold's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The Jr. Canadians kept the Blackhawks' goalie busy throughout the game, and Josh Astorino made 33 saves on 35 shots.

In addition, Welland received assists from Tyler Stranges, who had one.

Welland was unable to stop Thorold from sending pucks towards the net, and the Blackhawks eventually piled up 52 shots on goal. Thorold could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 24 minutes in penalties during the game.

The Blackhawks were led by Brendan D`Agostino, who scored the team's only goal. D`Agostino scored 18:00 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Welland.

The Jr. Canadians incurred 20 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Thorold registered zero goals on five power play opportunities.