Patrick Cozzi scored the go-ahead goal in the first period, and North Jersey Avalanche (MM) held off the challenges of Oakland Jr. Grizzlies (MM) in a tough 3-1 win.

A goal 16:06 into the first period by Cozzi proved to be the game winner, and powered North Jersey Avalanche (MM) to the victory. Wade Novak assisted on the tally.

The win gave North Jersey Avalanche (MM) a 1-0 lead in the best of one series.

North Jersey Avalanche (MM) was sparked by Novak, who finished with one goal and one assist. Novak scored 17:59 into the first period to make the score 2-0 North Jersey Avalanche (MM).

North Jersey Avalanche (MM) stifled Oakland Jr. Grizzlies (MM)'s power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Tyler Antonucci also scored for North Jersey Avalanche (MM). More assists for North Jersey Avalanche (MM) came via Joshua Sarlo, who had one.

Oakland Jr. Grizzlies (MM) was led by GERMAN SAMVEL, who scored the team's only goal. SAMVEL scored 6:47 into the second period to make the score 2-1 North Jersey Avalanche (MM). NICK GRANOWICZ picked up the assist.

North Jersey Avalanche (MM) incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors. Oakland Jr. Grizzlies (MM) incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.