In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Essex 73s escaped with a 4-3 victory over the Wheatley Sharks.

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

The win by Essex clinched the best of seven series at 4-0.

Philip Janikowski had a great game for the 73s, netting two goals. Janikowski scored at 7:08 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Essex and again while 4:35 into the third to make the score 3-3.

Essex's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Wheatley power plays.

Dylan Solecki also scored for Essex. More assists for Essex came via Chad Hedrick, who had two and Matthew Rosati, Tyler Raymont, Matthew Hebert, and Aaron Thibert, who contributed one a piece.

Wheatley excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances.

The Sharks were helped by Scott Florence, who registered one goal. Florence scored 2:57 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Wheatley. Wheatley also had goals scored by Zach Wilson and Cale Phibbs, who each put in one. In addition, Wheatley received assists from Austin Thompson and Jon Woelk, who each chipped in one.

The 73s' Darien Ekblad stopped 21 shots out of the 24 that he faced. Essex incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Conner MacKinnon made 18 saves for Wheatley on 22 shots. The Sharks incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.