The Chicago Junior Bulldogs could not stop the Peoria Mustangs' Mitchell McPherson, who tallied a hat trick in a 5-3 win.

McPherson's first goal came 5:37 into the first period. He then added goals at 5:08 into the second and at 19:44 into the third.

Peoria excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances. The Mustangs kept Chicago's goalie busy throughout the game, and Sam Harden made 56 saves on 61 shots.

Peoria also got a goal from Kai Barber as well. More assists for Peoria came via Levi Armstrong, Nathan Scofield, and Nathan Marlow, who contributed one each and Marshall Gevers and Thomas Kolaz, who each chipped in two.

The Junior Bulldogs could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 28 minutes in penalties during the game.

Chicago was helped by Niko Moulakelis, who grabbed one goal. Moulakelis scored 2:28 into the second period to make the score 3-2 Chicago. Nick Rems provided the assist. Chicago also had goals scored by Kyle Barna and Scott Coash Jr, who scored one goal each. In addition, Chicago received assists from Scott Schroeder, Andrew Fattore, Michael Howard, and Mike Holmes, who contributed one each.

Ross Lipic made 23 saves for Peoria on 26 shots. The Mustangs incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.