The Norwich Merchants survived a determined comeback attempt by the Burford Bulldogs on the way to a 2-1 win.

Norwich made the score 2-0 on a goal by Braeden Shand at 13:09 in the third period, and Burford got as close as 2-1 when Kolby Francis scored 18:01 into the third period.

The Bulldogs were stymied by the Merchants' netminder Patrick Maziarz, who stopped 34 shots during the victory. Maziarz managed to improve on his goals against average, which stood at 2.83 prior to the game.

Norwich pulled out the victory even though it was hit with 31 penalty minutes.

The Merchants excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in seven chances. Norwich kept Burford's goalie busy throughout the game, and Riley Edwards made 33 saves on 35 shots.

Mitchell Berzins also scored for Norwich. In addition, Norwich received assists from Kurtis Lavis and Drake Morrell, who each chipped in one.

The Bulldogs racked up the penalties in the contest, and ended with 13 minors and one major for 51 minutes in penalty time. Burford surpassed its season average of 30.0 penalty minutes per game. The Bulldogs were held below their usual level of production. Burford averages 3.2 goals per game. The Bulldogs managed to hold the Merchants' power play largely in check, allowing only one goal while on the disadvantage. Burford forced Norwich goalie Maziarz to work between the pipes, taking 35 shots.

More assists for Burford came via Connor Merritt and Mitch Randell, who contributed one each.

The Merchants ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Jordan Everets was ejected from the game. For the Bulldogs, Mark McGregor was ejected from the game.