In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Essex 73s escaped with a 3-2 victory over the Wheatley Sharks.

Neither team gained more than a one-goal lead, and Jordan Ryan's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.

The win gave Essex a 2-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Ryan was all over the ice for the 73s, as he grabbed two goals in the win.

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

Essex additionally got points from Daniel McIntyre, who also had one goal and one assist. In addition, Essex received assists from Tyler Scott, who had three and Brett Clarke and Scott Bromley, who contributed one a piece.

The Sharks were led by Scott Florence, who registered one goal and one assist. Florence scored 18:21 into the first period to make the score 1-1. Brett Bowman picked up the assist. Wheatley also got a goal from Cale Phibbs as well. More assists for Wheatley came via Tyler Liboiron and Jon Woelk, who each chipped in one.

Darien Ekblad made 20 saves for the 73s on 22 shots. Essex incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Conner MacKinnon rejected 23 shots on goal for Wheatley. The Sharks incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.