In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Niagara Falls Canucks escaped with a 3-2 victory over the Thorold Blackhawks.

No lead was more than one goal during the contest, and the winning goal was scored by Michael Christou at 9:38 of the third period.

The win by Niagara Falls broke a deadlock and gave the Canucks a 2-1 advantage in the best of seven series.

Niagara Falls was led by Christou, who registered one goal.

Niagara Falls additionally got points from Cam Stewart, who also had one goal and one assist and Marcus Michalski, who also racked up one goal and one assist. More assists for Niagara Falls came via Darren Young, who had two and Brad Kri and Cole Vinnai, who each chipped in one.

Thorold kept the Canucks' goalie busy throughout the game, and Hunter Johnson made 33 saves on 35 shots. The Blackhawks had trouble converting on the power play advantage, managing just two goals on 12 chances.

Thorold was helped by Tanner Hildbrant, who racked up one goal. Hildbrant scored on the power play 4:46 into the second period to make the score 1-1. The Blackhawks had gotten the advantage when Niagara Falls' Sean Farquharson was sent off for interference. Tanner Pagendam assisted on the tally. Owen Sobchak also scored for Thorold. In addition, Thorold received assists from Brian Brosnan, Matt Pizzo, and Myles Falasca, who contributed one a piece.

The Canucks incurred 36 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. Vinny Merante made 27 saves for Thorold on 30 shots. The Blackhawks incurred 24 minutes in penalty time with seven minors.