The North York Rangers tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Buffalo Jr. Sabres held on for a 3-1 victory.

A goal by Aaron Reinig put Buffalo up 3-0 in the second period, but North York pulled to within two on Fedor Rudakov's tally 4:24 into the third period.

The win gave the Jr. Sabres a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Buffalo was led by Griffin Lunn, who grabbed one goal. Lunn scored 8:39 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Buffalo. Christopher Berger provided the assist.

The Jr. Sabres put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Rangers to score on any of their three power plays. Buffalo got an offensive boost from its blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game.

Other players who recorded assists for Buffalo were Zach Evancho, who had two and Bryce Ferrell and Ryan Wheeler, who each chipped in one.

More assists for North York came via Nick Campoli, who had one.

Tucker Weppner rejected 19 shots on goal for the Jr. Sabres. Buffalo incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Gianluca Baggetta recorded 24 saves for North York. The Rangers incurred 24 minutes in penalty time with 12 minors.