The Belle River Canadiens could not stop the Essex 73s' Corey Beaulieu, who tallied a hat trick in a 6-1 win.

Beaulieu notched his first tally 7:39 into the first period. He then added goals at 8:22 into the third and at 10:05 into the third.

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

Belle River was unable to stop the 73s from sending pucks towards the net, and Essex eventually piled up 51 shots on goal.

Essex also got points from Eric Shaw, who also registered one goal and one assist and Colin DeLaet, who also tallied one goal and two assists. Brett Clarke also scored for Essex. In addition, Essex received assists from Tyler Raymont, who had one and Daniel Slipchuk, who had four.

The Canadiens were led by Brenden Crundwell, who scored the team's only goal. Crundwell scored on the power play 19:36 into the second period to make the score 1-1. Belle River earned a power play opportunity when Michael Popel was put in the box for hooking. Brian Johnson assisted on the tally.

Darien Ekblad rejected 23 shots on goal for the 73s. Essex incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Mitch Topliffe recorded 45 saves for the Canadiens. Belle River incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.