Kris Melna gave the Welland Jr. Canadians a 3-2 (OT) victory over the Thorold Blackhawks when he scored 3:38 into the extra period.

Although Welland was up by as many as two goals in the third period, Thorold kept the game interesting by staging a comeback that ultimately fell short. The Blackhawks got to within 2-1 on a goal by Francois Plamondon at 4:43 in the third period.

The Jr. Canadians were sparked by Melna, who finished with one goal.

Thorold was unable to stop Welland from sending pucks towards the net, and the Jr. Canadians eventually piled up 40 shots on goal.

Others who scored for Welland included Max Cipriano and Matt Martin, who each put in one. In addition, Welland received assists from Cristian DiFonzo, Brayden Stortz, Cole McKnight, Nathan MacDuff, Josh Allan, and JC Thivierge, who each chipped in one.

The Blackhawks stifled Welland's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Thorold's offense rang up 31 shots on the Jr. Canadians' net.

Nick Giancola also scored for Thorold. More assists for Thorold came via Quinn Geddes, who had one and Jake Lloyd, who had two.

Chris Janzen made 29 saves for Welland on 31 shots. The Jr. Canadians incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Welland ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Jack Fitzgerald was ejected from the game. Josh Astorino rejected 37 shots on goal for the Blackhawks. Thorold incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. For the Blackhawks, Vito Scaringi was ejected from the game.