The Aurora Tigers tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Hamilton Red Wings held on for a 4-3 victory.

Hamilton made the score 3-1 on a goal by Laine McKay at 9:51 in the second period, and Aurora got as close as 3-2 when Cameron Morrison scored 3:02 into the third period.

The Red Wings were paced by Luke Sinclair, who tallied one goal. Sinclair scored 17:54 into the third period to make the score 4-3 Hamilton.

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

Hamilton also got points from Rylee St. Onge, who also had one goal and one assist. Ryan Punkari also scored for Hamilton. More assists for Hamilton came via Matt Smith, who had two and Jason OConnor and Giovanni Foschia, who each chipped in one.

The Tigers forced the Red Wings' goaltenders to work all game long, finishing with 36 shots and forcing 33 saves. Alexander Bishop made 33 stops and Mark Sinclair made zero.

Aurora additionally got points from Keaton Ratcliffe, who also finished with one goal and one assist. Aurora also got a goal from Daniel Mantenuto as well. In addition, Aurora received assists from John Curran, Shane Beaulieu, and Eric Williams, who contributed one each.

Hamilton incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Andy Munroe rejected 20 shots on goal for Aurora. The Tigers incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.