The Norwich Merchants survived a determined comeback attempt by the Paris Mounties on the way to a 3-2 win.

Norwich took a 3-1 lead during the third period, only to have Paris storm back on a Kyle Bezruki goal 19:52 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

The win gave the Merchants a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Nick Burdett was all over the ice for Norwich, as he tallied two goals and one assist in the win. Burdett scored the first of his two goals on the power play at 8:31 into the first period to make the score 1-1. The Merchants earned a power play opportunity when Ben Holtom was put in the box for tripping. Drake Morrell provided the assist. Burdett's next tally on the power play made the score 2-1 Norwich with 1:40 left in the second period. Gus Ford picked up the assist.

Norwich forced the Mounties goalie Zach Shompe to work between the pipes, taking 35 shots. The defensemen of the Merchants were also effective in Paris' zone, and came away with two goals.

Braeden Shand also scored for Norwich. Other players who recorded assists for Norwich were Todd Poirier, who had one.

Paris also got a goal from Jeff Howlett as well. More assists for Paris came via Ian Fowler, who had two and Kamden Hughes and Brandan Verasamy, who each chipped in one.

Matt McGonigle recorded 24 saves for Norwich. The Merchants incurred 24 minutes in penalty time with 12 minors. Zach Shompe made 32 saves for the Mounties on 35 shots. Paris incurred 24 minutes in penalty time with 12 minors.