The Wallaceburg Lakers tried to dig themselves out of a four-goal hole, but the Essex 73s held on for a 4-2 victory.

A goal by Matthew Rosati put Essex up 4-0 in the third period, but Wallaceburg pulled to within two on Trevor Waller's tally 13:30 into the third period.

The 73s got the win thanks to a great game by Jordan Ryan, who had one goal and two assists. Ryan scored 11:04 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Essex. Daniel McIntyre picked up the assist.

Essex forced the Lakers goalie Joel Sowinski to work between the pipes, taking 39 shots.

Others who scored for Essex included Josh Pope-Ferguson and Phil Janikowski, who each put in one. More assists for Essex came via William Stadder and Mark MacPherson, who each chipped in one.

Wallaceburg's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Essex power plays. The 73s were unable to stop the Lakers from sending pucks towards the net, and Wallaceburg eventually piled up 32 shots on goal.

Wallaceburg also got a goal from Bronson Bea as well. In addition, Wallaceburg received assists from Brock Daugherty, Alex Ritchie, and Brendan Ritchie, who contributed one each.

Colin Lauzon recorded 30 saves for Essex. The 73s ended with 25 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major. For Essex, Eric Shaw was ejected from the game. The Lakers' Sowinski stopped 35 shots out of the 39 that he faced. Wallaceburg incurred 22 minutes in penalty time with six minors.