The Norwich Merchants tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Paris Mounties held on for a 4-2 victory.

Paris took a 4-1 lead during the third period, only to have Norwich storm back on a Brandon Zimmermann goal 13:38 into the third period to pull to two goals down.

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

Paris' penalty kill excelled, as the Mounties gave up one goal despite allowing seven power plays.

Paris was helped by Clayton Chalmers, who racked up one goal. Chalmers scored on the power play 18:09 into the second period to make the score 3-1 Paris. The Mounties had taken the advantage when the Merchants' Kurtis Lavis got sent off for slashing. Brodie Smith assisted on the tally. Ian Fowler also scored for Paris. More assists for Paris came via Zack Skubnik, who had two and Brady Wheelans, Richard Brooks, and Scott Sippel, who contributed one a piece.

Norwich was helped by Drake Morrell, who had one goal. Morrell scored 2:17 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Norwich. Mitchell Berzins picked up the assist.

Zach Shompe made 28 saves for Paris on 30 shots. The Mounties incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Zac Easveld rejected 25 shots on goal for the Merchants. Norwich incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.