The Norwich Merchants tried their best to erase a two-goal deficit, but the Tavistock Braves would not be denied the victory and hung on to win, 2-1.

Tavistock made the score 2-0 on a goal by Jared Yantzi at 17:18 in the second period, and Norwich got as close as 2-1 when Austin Sloot scored 15:47 into the third period.

The Braves were led by goalie Ben Larder, who finished with 26 saves while allowing one goal. Larder certainly lowered his goals against average, which was 2.62 entering the contest.

The Merchants' power play was ineffective against Tavistock's penalty kill, which allowed zero goals while shorthanded.

The Braves' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on seven Norwich power plays.

Dylan Yantzi also scored for Tavistock. In addition, Tavistock received assists from Spencer Sullivan and Darcey Butler, who contributed one each.

Norwich did not reach the goal total it has come to expect this season. The Merchants put an average of 3.6 pucks into the net per game.

More assists for Norwich came via Jesse Szabo, who had one.

Tavistock incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with seven minors. Justin Pacheco made 27 saves for Norwich on 29 shots. The Merchants incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors.