The Port Colborne Pirates tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Welland Jr. Canadians held on for a 3-2 victory.

A goal by Chris Langdon put Welland up 3-1 in the third period, but Port Colborne pulled to within one on Zack Deconilys's tally 17:10 into the third period.

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

Welland was sparked by Langdon, who tallied one goal. Langdon scored 10:42 into the third period to make the score Welland. Braden Curry provided the assist.

The Jr. Canadians kept the Pirates' goalie busy throughout the game, and Real Cormier made 41 saves on 44 shots.

Welland also got a goal from Jason Lacroix as well. Other players who recorded assists for Welland were Josh Gervais and Lapine Rob, who contributed one a piece.

Port Colborne put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Welland to score on any of its four power plays. The Pirates forced the Jr. Canadians goalie Chris McDougall to work between the pipes, taking 39 shots.

Port Colborne was helped by DYLAN BURDICK, who finished with one goal. BURDICK scored 5:58 into the second period to make the score 1-1. Trevor Smith picked up the assist. In addition, Port Colborne received assists from Dima Lavrenov, who had one.

McDougall recorded 37 saves for Welland. The Jr. Canadians incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. The Pirates incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors.