The Exeter Hawks survived a determined comeback attempt by the Thamesford Trojans on the way to a 5-3 win.

Exeter took a 5-2 lead during the third period, only to have Thamesford storm back on a Matthew Smallman goal 16:11 into the third period to pull to two goals down.

After the loss made the series score 3-1 in the best of seven series, the Trojans face elimination next time out.

The Hawks forced Thamesford goalie Tyler Gubesch to work between the pipes, taking 53 shots.

Exeter was led by Chase Thornton, who had three goals. Exeter additionally got points from Max Naus, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Exeter also got a goal from Christopher Pfaff as well. In addition, Exeter received assists from Tyler McNaughton, who had two and Tyler Kettler and Tyler Coleman, who contributed one each.

The Trojans had trouble converting on the power play advantage, managing just one goal on nine chances.

Thamesford also got points from Joey Wright, who also tallied one goal and one assist. Cole Chilvers also scored for Thamesford. Other players who recorded assists for Thamesford were Derek Courtney, who had one and Jake McColl, who had two.

James Morreau rejected 24 shots on goal for the Hawks. Exeter incurred 20 minutes in penalty time with 10 minors. Gubesch recorded 48 saves for Thamesford. The Trojans incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with nine minors.