The LaSalle Vipers tried their best to erase a three-goal deficit, but the Strathroy Rockets would not be denied the victory and hung on to win, 3-1.

Strathroy made the score 3-0 on a goal by Tony Belony at 8:37 in the second period, and LaSalle got as close as 3-1 when Brendan McCann scored 3:25 into the third period.

With the win, the Rockets evened the series at 2-2 in the best of seven showdown.

The Vipers were stymied by Strathroy netminder Dalen Kuchmey, who stopped 30 shots during the victory. The solid play of Kuchmey will be reflected in his goals against average, which pre-game was 3.26.

The Rockets put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow LaSalle to score on any of its five power plays. Strathroy kept the Vipers' goalie busy throughout the game, and Taylor Speed made 32 saves on 35 shots. The defensemen of the Rockets were also effective in LaSalle's zone, and came away with two goals.

Strathroy was helped by Matthew Watson, who racked up one goal. Watson scored on the power play 11:13 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Strathroy. The Rockets had gained a power play chance when Ben Hanus was whistled for slashing. Blake O`Neill assisted on the tally. Strathroy also got points from Chase Thornton, who also registered one goal and one assist. Other players who recorded assists for Strathroy were Nick Boyer, who had one and Tyler Duarte, who had three.

The Vipers forced Strathroy goalie Kuchmey to work between the pipes, taking 31 shots.

More assists for LaSalle came via Chad Shepley and Eric Noel, who contributed one a piece.

The Rockets incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. LaSalle incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.