The Ancaster Avalanche's Zach Niemanen scored 3:43 into overtime to beat the Welland Jr. Canadians, 3-2 (OT).

Ancaster almost relinquished a two-score lead. The Avalanche made the score 2-0 on a goal by Max Balinson at 19:48 in the first period. Welland got to within 2-1 on a power play goal by Matt Cuglietta at 15:29 in the third period.

Niemanen had a great game for Ancaster, netting two goals.

The Avalanche did not reach the goal total they have come to expect this season. Ancaster averages 6.3 goals per game. The Avalanche forced the Jr. Canadians goalie Liam Conway to work between the pipes, taking 31 shots.

More assists for Ancaster came via Blake Luscombe, who had three and Luke Zupan, Ryan Lewis, and Harrison Domagala, who contributed one a piece.

Welland put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Ancaster to score on any of its three power plays.

The Jr. Canadians were helped by Brayden Stortz, who racked up one goal. Stortz scored on the power play 16:08 into the third period to make the score 2-2. Welland earned a power play opportunity when Balinson was put in the box for cross checking. Gabe Ruggi picked up the assist. Other players who recorded assists for Welland were Adam Mataya, Jack Fitzgerald, and Connor Walters, who each chipped in one.

Matt Calas recorded 27 saves for the Avalanche. Ancaster incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. For the Avalanche, Michael Pollice was ejected from the game. The Jr. Canadians' Conway stopped 28 shots out of the 31 that he faced. Welland incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.