The Pickering Panthers tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Aurora Tigers held on for a 3-1 victory.

A goal by Drake Board put Aurora up 3-0 in the second period, but Pickering pulled to within two on Brian Hurley's tally 4:36 into the third period.

The Tigers were led by Daniel Mantenuto, who finished with one goal and one assist. Mantenuto scored 11:26 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Aurora. Eric Williams picked up the assist.

Aurora put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Panthers to score on any of their three power plays. The Tigers kept Pickering's goalie busy throughout the game, and Austin Washkurak made 37 saves on 40 shots.

Aurora also got a goal from Mack Lemmon as well. In addition, Aurora received assists from Keaton Ratcliffe, Liam Neuman, and Nicholas Erb, who contributed one each.

The Panthers did not reach the goal total they have come to expect this season. Pickering puts an average of 3.3 pucks into the net per game.

Other players who recorded assists for Pickering were John Hudgin and Lucas Condotta, who each chipped in one.

Andy Munroe recorded 23 saves for Aurora. The Tigers incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. The Panthers incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.