The Essex 73s tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Dresden Kings held on for a 4-3 victory.

A goal by Jesse Allen put Dresden up 4-2 in the third period, but Essex pulled to within one on Adam Dunmore's tally 18:59 into the third period.

Allen was all over the ice for the Kings, as he had two goals in the win.

Dresden additionally got points from Dylan Mertz, who also grabbed two goals and two assists to lead the team in points. Other players who recorded assists for Dresden were Cody McPhail and Macks Holmes, who each chipped in one and Josh Clements and Josh Beatty, who contributed two a piece.

The 73s kept Dresden's goalie busy throughout the game, and Brent Paxton made 44 saves on 47 shots.

Essex was helped by Daniel McIntyre, who tallied one goal. McIntyre scored on the power play 9:01 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Dresden. The 73s had gained a power play chance when Alex Schmidt was whistled for tripping. Alex Garon provided the assist. Dylan Solecki also scored for Essex. More assists for Essex came via Kevin Boggs, Corey Beaulieu, Jordan Ryan, Zack Miletic, and Matthew Hebert, who each chipped in one.

The Kings totaled 17 minutes in penalty time with six minors and one major and went 2-for-5 on the power play. Arren Romeril took the loss and made 15 saves before being replaced by Trevor Wheaton who made four saves. Essex incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. The 73s ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Phil Janikowski was ejected from the game.