The North York Rangers gutted out a close 3-2 win against the Milton Icehawks.

Each team kept the other at bay throughout the game, and Matthew Whittaker secured the win for North York with a goal in the third period.

The Rangers were sparked by Whittaker, who finished with one goal. Whittaker scored 19:23 into the third period to make the score 3-2 North York. Lapierre Charles picked up the assist.

North York forced Milton goalie Daniel Plater to work between the pipes, taking 35 shots.

Ryan Kinsella also scored for North York. Other players who recorded assists for North York were Valadao Adam, Patrick Simmonds, and John Carpino, who each chipped in one.

The Icehawks' offense rang up 43 shots on the Rangers' net.

Milton was helped by Ryan Burns, who tallied one goal. Burns scored 14:23 into the third period to make the score 2-2. Kane Elliot assisted on the tally. Milton also got points from Elliot, who also registered one goal and one assist. More assists for Milton came via Austin Kosack, Daniel Poutscongas, and Patrick Arnold, who contributed one a piece.

Keogh Jacob rejected 41 shots on goal for North York. The Rangers incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors. Plater recorded 32 saves for the Icehawks. Milton incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.