The Essex 73s survived a determined comeback attempt by the Mooretown Flags on the way to a 5-4 win.

Essex made the score 5-3 on a goal by Nick Mainella at 19:04 in the third period, and Mooretown got as close as 5-4 when Ben Morrison scored 19:36 into the third period.

The 73s were led by Mainella, who registered one goal and one assist.

The Flags were unable to stop Essex from sending pucks towards the net, and the 73s eventually piled up 34 shots on goal. Essex's defense let in more goals than it usually has this year. The 73s average 1.9 goal allowed per game.

Essex additionally got points from Jordan Ryan, who also grabbed one goal and one assist, Daniel McIntyre, who also had one goal and one assist, and Dallas Pereira, who also finished with one goal and one assist. Essex also got a goal from Michael Vieira as well. More assists for Essex came via Matt Zelko and Dan Mainella, who each chipped in one.

Mooretown excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in three chances. The Flags forced Essex goalie Colin Lauzon to work between the pipes, taking 36 shots.

Others who scored for Mooretown included Ryan Lyle and Caden Fleming, who scored one goal each. Other players who recorded assists for Mooretown were Austin Hewton, who had two, Brent Blais, who had three, and Joe DeSena, Colton Osborne, and Dan Lumley, who contributed one each.

Colin Lauzon made 32 saves for the 73s on 36 shots. Essex incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors. Brandon Johnson recorded 29 saves for Mooretown. The Flags incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors.