The Belle River Canadiens tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Wheatley Sharks held on for a 4-3 victory.

A goal by Brett Babkirk put Wheatley up 4-2 in the second period, but Belle River pulled to within one on Mike Ditty's tally 45 seconds into the third period.

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

Babkirk and Riley Babkirk provided the spark for Wheatley, combining for two goals and four assists. Babkirk tallied one goal and two assists and Babkirk also notched one goal and two assists.

The Canadiens were unable to stop the Sharks from sending pucks towards the net, and Wheatley eventually piled up 36 shots on goal.

Wheatley additionally got points from Brian Johnson, who also had one goal and two assists and Babkirk, who also registered one goal and two assists to lead the team in points. Wheatley also got a goal from Craig Adamson as well. In addition, Wheatley received assists from Brendon Anger, who had one.

James Shelton also scored for Belle River. More assists for Belle River came via Jordan Taylor, Branden Larocque, Donnovan Plummer, Chris DiNatale, and Richard Dunning, who contributed one a piece.

Marc Tremblay recorded 19 saves for the Sharks. Wheatley incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Zakk Olvin made 32 saves for Belle River on 36 shots. The Canadiens incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.