The Essex 73s came close to giving away a four-goal lead to the Alvinston Flyers, but did just enough to escape with a 5-3 victory.

Essex led by four goals at one point and ended with the victory. The largest advantage in the game came when the 73s' Michael Vieira scored at 16:40 in the second period to put Essex up 4-0.

Vieira had a great game for the 73s, netting two goals.

Essex's penalty kill excelled, as the 73s gave up zero goals despite allowing six power plays.

Essex forced Flyers' netminders to work without much rest, taking 35 shots and forcing 30 saves. Brett Avery made 23 stops and Cam MacAlpine made seven. The 73s stifled Alvinston's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Essex additionally got points from Scott Bromley, who also tallied one goal and two assists to lead the team in points. Essex also had goals scored by William Stadder and Phil Janikowski, who each put in one. In addition, Essex received assists from Nick Mainella, Mark MacPherson, Tyler Turner, and Dan Mainella, who contributed one each and Adam Gaiarin and Matthew Hebert, who each chipped in two.

The Flyers kept Essex's goalie busy throughout the game, and Colin Lauzon made 32 saves on 35 shots.

Alvinston was helped by Jeremy VanDeven, who had one goal and one assist. VanDeven scored 9:11 into the third period to make the score 4-2 Essex. Zach VanEyk picked up the assist. Alvinston also got points from Clint Rose, who also registered one goal and one assist. Alvinston also got a goal from Joe Archer as well. More assists for Alvinston came via Karsten Berg, Josh Moore, and Kole Keating, who contributed one each.

The 73s incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. The Flyers incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.