The Wheatley Sharks had trouble finding ways to stop the Essex 73s, which beat Sharks, 5-1.

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

The 73s' Trevor Wheaton was a brick wall in net, as he came up with 37 saves and let only one puck past him. Wheaton certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 1.23 entering the contest.

Essex was led by Adam Dunmore, who racked up one goal and one assist. Dunmore scored on the power play 17:15 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Essex. The 73s had taken the advantage when Wheatley's Dylan Impens got sent off for holding. Blaise Baillargeon assisted on the tally.

Essex's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on five Wheatley power plays. The Sharks were unable to stop the 73s from sending pucks towards the net, and Essex eventually piled up 40 shots on goal.

Essex additionally got points from Corey Beaulieu, who also registered one goal and one assist. Alex Garon also scored for Essex. Other players who recorded assists for Essex were Kevin Boggs, who had three and Matthew Hebert and Daniel Slipchuck, who each chipped in one.

Wheatley forced the 73s goalie Wheaton to work between the pipes, taking 38 shots.

Essex incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Marc Tremblay recorded 35 saves for the Sharks. Wheatley incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. For the Sharks, Kyle Quick was ejected from the game.