In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Norwich Merchants escaped with a 5-3 victory over the Burford Bulldogs.

Neither team gained more than a two-goal lead, and Ryan Dayman's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.

Norwich was sparked by Dayman, who racked up one goal. Dayman scored 14:47 into the third period to make the score 4-3 Norwich. Daniel Rizzo assisted on the tally.

In a losing effort, Burford was paced by Tyler Hinde, who had two goals and one assist. Hinde scored the first of his two goals at 59 seconds into the first period to make the score 1-0 Burford. Jesse Brooks provided the assist. Hinde's next tally made the score 3-2 Burford with 18:34 left in the third period. Tyler Mellish picked up the assist.

The Merchants' offense rang up 37 shots on the Bulldogs' net. Norwich outdid its season average for goals scored. The Merchants average 2.9 goals per game. Norwich's penalty killing units received substantial work throughout the game as the Merchants finished with 24 penalty minutes. Norwich got an offensive boost from its blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game.

Norwich also had goals scored by Derek Slaght, Matt Caskanette, Zack Morrison, and Riley Monture, who each put in one. More assists for Norwich came via Jamie Kelly, who had two and Brandon Velda and Ray Munro, who each chipped in one.

Burford excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in six chances. The Bulldogs kept the Merchants' goalie busy throughout the game, and Andrew Lefebvre made 32 saves on 35 shots.

Burford also got a goal from Mitch Randell as well. In addition, Burford received assists from Daiken Salsman, who had two.

Burford's Michael Black stopped 32 shots out of the 36 that he faced. The Bulldogs incurred 26 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. For Burford, Scott Penwarden was ejected from the game.