The Essex 73s had a four-goal lead after two periods and cruised the rest of the way en route to a 5-1 win over the Wheatley Sharks.

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

The 73s were led by Corey Beaulieu, who had one goal and one assist. Beaulieu scored on the power play 12:00 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Essex. Essex earned a power play opportunity when Scott Florence was put in the box for cross checking.

The 73s stifled Wheatley's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Essex kept the Sharks' goalie busy throughout the game, and Conner MacKinnon made 31 saves on 36 shots.

Others who scored for Essex included Alex Garon, Jordan Ryan, Philip Janikowski, and Colin DeLaet, who each put in one. In addition, Essex received assists from Tyler Raymont, Michael Popel, Eric Shaw, Matthew Hebert, Dylan Solecki, and Daniel McIntyre, who contributed one a piece.

Wheatley also got a goal from Jimmy Ciacelli as well.

Darien Ekblad recorded 15 saves for the 73s. Essex incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Wheatley incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors.