The North York Rangers tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Markham Royals held on for a 3-2 victory.

Markham took a 2-0 lead during the second period, only to have North York storm back on a Adam Giacomin goal 9:54 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

The Rangers' power play was ineffective against the Royals' penalty kill, which allowed one goal while shorthanded.

North York was unable to stop Markham from sending pucks towards the net, and the Royals eventually piled up 42 shots on goal.

Markham was led by Tyson Bruce, who had one goal and one assist. Bruce scored 14:53 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Markham. Marco Azzano provided the assist. Markham also had goals scored by Brendan Valko and Trevor Abbot, who scored one goal each. In addition, Markham received assists from Matthew Dunlop, Sean Perichak, and Rylee St. Onge, who each chipped in one.

The Rangers' offense rang up 47 shots on the Royals' net.

Tyler Currie also scored for North York. More assists for North York came via Fedor Rudakov and Louis Kereakou, who contributed one each.

Markham's Marcus Semiao stopped 45 shots out of the 47 that he faced. The Royals incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Gianluca Baggetta recorded 39 saves for North York. The Rangers incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.