The Burlington Cougars gutted out a close 4-2 win against the Milton Icehawks.

Each team kept the other at bay throughout the game, and Tyler VanKleef secured the win for Burlington with a goal in the third period.

The Cougars' penalty kill excelled, as Burlington gave up one goal despite allowing six power plays.

The Cougars were led by VanKleef, who finished with one goal. VanKleef scored 4:59 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Burlington. Shane Conacher assisted on the tally.

The Burlington penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled six minors and one major for 27 minutes in penalty time. The Cougars surpassed its season average of 19.0 penalty minutes per game. Burlington kept Milton's goalie busy throughout the game, and Justin Urquhart made 29 saves on 33 shots.

Burlington also got points from Conacher, who also registered one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Jeremy Gottzmann also scored for Burlington. In addition, Burlington received assists from Adam Glynn, who had two and Ellery O Hara, John Najafi, Tyler Lepore, Michael Courvouisier, and Jack OHara, who contributed one a piece.

The Icehawks' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Burlington power plays. The Cougars were unable to stop Milton from sending pucks towards the net, and the Icehawks eventually piled up 43 shots on goal.

Milton was helped by Shane Bennett, who racked up one goal. Bennett scored on the power play 11:47 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Milton. The Icehawks had taken the advantage when Burlington's Lepore got sent off for hooking. Brad Kobryn picked up the assist. Milton also got a goal from Bryce Abraham as well. More assists for Milton came via Austin Kosack, Kane Elliot, and Griffin Leach, who each chipped in one.

The Cougars' Alex Murray stopped 41 shots out of the 43 that he faced. Milton incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.