The Pickering Panthers gutted out a close 5-3 win against the Stouffville Spirit.

No lead was more than two goals during the contest, and the winning goal was scored by Josh Herrington at 2:05 of the third period.

Pickering's penalty kill excelled, as the Panthers gave up one goal despite allowing seven power plays.

Pickering was paced by Herrington, who racked up one goal.

The Panthers outdid their season average for goals scored. Pickering averages 2.6 goals per game. The Panthers' defensemen played an important role in the offense, chipping in two goals.

Aidan Wallace also scored for Pickering. In addition, Pickering received assists from Wil Pointon, who had two and Andrew McCann, Ian Chen APM, Tanner Bull, and Brent Tuchner, who each chipped in one.

Stouffville forced Pickering goalie Conor Barrie to work between the pipes, taking 59 shots. The Spirit could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 38 minutes in penalties during the game.

Stouffville was helped by MARC STEVENS, who grabbed one goal and one assist. STEVENS scored 7:25 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Stouffville. Michael Stevens picked up the assist. Stouffville additionally got points from Corey DeRose, who also registered one goal and one assist. Stouffville also got a goal from Nathanael Halbert as well. Other players who recorded assists for Stouffville were Chad Burrows, Stefan vonEngelbrechten, and Joseph Deveny, who contributed one a piece.

The Panthers' Barrie stopped 56 shots out of the 59 that he faced. Pickering incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. Daniel Mannella made 19 saves for the Spirit on 24 shots.