The Stratford Cullitons gutted out a close 4-2 win against the Kitchener Dutchmen.

No lead was more than two goals during the contest, and the winning goal was scored by Trevor Sauder at 14:52 of the third period.

The win gave Stratford a 1-0 lead in the best of seven series.

The Cullitons' penalty kill excelled, as Stratford gave up zero goals despite allowing six power plays.

The Cullitons were led by Sauder, who had one goal.

Stratford stifled Kitchener's power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. The Cullitons' offense rang up 49 shots on the Dutchmen's net.

Stratford also had goals scored by Mitch Brooks, Patrick McKelvie, and Justin Graham, who each put in one. Other players who recorded assists for Stratford were Shane O Brien, who had two and Jared Nash, Jake Pleon, Brook Hiddink, and Zach Van Louwe, who each chipped in one.

Kitchener was helped by Nathan Grossi, who grabbed one goal. Grossi scored 5:38 into the third period to make the score 2-2. Nic Hague picked up the assist. Jordan Delaurier also scored for Kitchener. In addition, Kitchener received assists from Sean Allen, Austin Gaboury, and Taite Wirschke, who contributed one each.

Nicholas Caldwell rejected 25 shots on goal for Stratford. The Cullitons incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Stratford ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Jeff McArdle was ejected from the game. Jackson McIntosh made 45 saves for the Dutchmen on 49 shots. Kitchener incurred 16 minutes in penalty time with eight minors.