The Essex 73s pulled out a 4-3 (OT) overtime victory over the Dresden Kings on a clutch goal by Jordan Ryan.

The win gave Essex a 2-0 lead in the best of seven series.

Although the 73s was up by as many as two goals in the third period, Dresden kept the game interesting by staging a comeback that ultimately fell short. The Kings pulled to within 3-2 on a goal by Jordan Durston at 13:16 in the third period.

Essex was paced on offense by Michael Vieira and Ryan, who combined for four points. Vieira had two goals and Ryan also added one goal and one assist.

The 73s stifled Dresden's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Essex forced the Kings goalie Daniel Tonietto to work between the pipes, taking 37 shots.

Essex additionally got points from Ryan, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Matthew Hebert also scored for Essex. More assists for Essex came via Alex Derksen, who had two and Eric Shaw and Daniel McIntyre, who contributed one each.

The 73s were unable to stop Dresden from sending pucks towards the net, and the Kings eventually piled up 34 shots on goal. The defensemen of Dresden were also effective in Essex's zone, and came away with two goals.

Dresden also got a goal from Ross Krieger as well. In addition, Dresden received assists from Jim McKinlay, Derrick VanEvery, and Will Tetzlaff, who each chipped in one.

The 73s' Noah Hedrick stopped 31 shots out of the 34 that he faced. Essex incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors. The 73s ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and William Stadder was ejected from the game. Daniel Tonietto made 33 saves for the Kings on 37 shots. Dresden totaled 35 minutes in penalty time with five minors and one major and went 0-for-8 on the power play. For the Kings, John Montgomery was ejected from the game.