The game between the Essex 73s and the Dresden Kings was tight through all 60 minutes, but in the end Essex emerged with a 4-2 win.

Each team kept the other at bay throughout the game, and Adam Dunmore secured the win for the 73s with a goal in the second period.

The win by Essex broke a deadlock and gave the 73s a 2-1 advantage in the best of seven series.

Essex's penalty kill excelled, as the 73s gave up zero goals despite allowing nine power plays.

Essex was sparked by Dan Bacon, who registered one goal and one assist. Bacon scored on the power play 17:11 into the second period to make the score 3-1 Essex. The 73s had gained a power play chance when Alex Schmidt was whistled for holding. Kevin Boggs provided the assist.

Essex stifled Dresden's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The 73s' offense rang up 39 shots on the Kings' net. Essex could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 32 minutes in penalties during the game. The defensemen of the 73s were also effective in Dresden's zone, and came away with two goals.

Essex also got a goal from Sean Ducharme as well. Other players who recorded assists for Essex were Corey Beaulieu, Jordan Brohman, and Aaron Thibert, who contributed one a piece.

The Kings kept Essex's goalie busy throughout the game, and Taylor Speed made 30 saves on 32 shots. Dresden's penalty kill managed to stymie the 73s' power play, giving up only one goal while playing with a man down. The Kings struggled to stay out of the sin bin throughout the game as they finished the game with 44 penalty minutes for 14 opposing power plays.

Dresden was helped by Macks Holmes, who registered one goal. Holmes scored short handed 12:38 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Essex. The Kings played down a man on Josh Clements' slashing. Derek Daly also scored for Dresden.

Brent Paxton made 35 saves for Dresden on 39 shots.