The Essex 73s and the Wheatley Sharks were evenly matched throughout their contest, but Essex made the most of its opportunities and won, 5-3.

Neither team gained more than a two-goal lead, and Dallas Pereira's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.

Pereira had two goals to lead the 73s to victory.

Essex stifled Wheatley's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The Sharks were unable to stop the 73s from sending pucks towards the net, and Essex eventually piled up 43 shots on goal.

Essex additionally got points from Jordan Ryan, who also finished with one goal and one assist. Essex also had goals scored by Anthony Cristofaro and Michael Vieira, who scored one goal each. In addition, Essex received assists from Mark MacPherson, Patrick Cuffaro, Daniel Slipchuk, and Daniel McIntyre, who each chipped in one and Adam Gaiarin and Tyler Scott, who contributed two each.

Wheatley found itself short handed often, totaling 34 penalty minutes and allowing nine power plays.

The Sharks were helped by Brendon Anger, who registered one goal. Anger scored 10:30 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Essex. Jimmy Ciacelli picked up the assist. Wheatley also got points from Scott Florence, who also grabbed one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Austin Thompson also scored for Wheatley. Other players who recorded assists for Wheatley were Layne Gouin, who had one.

Noah Hedrick made 23 saves for the 73s on 26 shots. Essex incurred 22 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Adam Leboeuf recorded 38 saves for Wheatley. The Sharks registered zero goals on three power play opportunities.