The Stratford Cullitons gutted out a close 4-2 win against the Cambridge Winter Hawks.

No lead was more than two goals during the contest, and the winning goal was scored by Mitch Brooks at 12:31 of the third period.

Stratford was sparked by Brooks, who had one goal and one assist.

The Cullitons put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Cambridge to score on any of its five power plays. Stratford forced the Winter Hawks goalie Lucas Machalski to work between the pipes, taking 33 shots.

Stratford additionally got points from Nathan Templeman, who also grabbed one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Stratford also had goals scored by Jared Nash and Shane O Brien, who scored one goal each. More assists for Stratford came via Deven Kropf, who had two and Carter Allen, Brook Hiddink, and Trevor Sauder, who contributed one each.

Cambridge excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances.

The Winter Hawks were helped by Josh Grant, who finished with one goal. Grant scored 12:10 into the third period to make the score 2-2. Jordan Chard picked up the assist. Jake Moggy also scored for Cambridge. In addition, Cambridge received assists from Stephen Jablonski and Devin Shell, who each chipped in one.

Nicholas Caldwell rejected 25 shots on goal for the Cullitons. Stratford incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Machalski recorded 29 saves for Cambridge. The Winter Hawks incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.