The Thorold Blackhawks pulled out a 1-0 (OT) overtime victory over the Welland Jr. Canadians on a clutch goal by Anthony Merante.

Thorold was boosted by Josh Astorino, who turned in a shutout with 34 saves. The solid play of Astorino will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 3.49.

Merante's game-winning tally was the game's only goal. It came at 4:53 in the fourth period. Daniel Pugliese picked up the assist.

The Blackhawks put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Welland to score on any of its three power plays. Thorold forced the Jr. Canadians goalie Brandon McCorriston to work between the pipes, taking 39 shots.

In addition, Thorold received assists from Francois Plamondon, who had one.

Welland did not reach the goal total it has come to expect this season. The Jr. Canadians put an average of 2.7 pucks into the net per game. Welland's offense rang up 34 shots on the Blackhawks' net.

Thorold incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors. McCorriston recorded 38 saves for the Jr. Canadians. Welland incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with three minors.