A stellar performance between the pipes by Trevor Wheaton helped the Essex 73s defeat the Blenheim Blades, 2-1.

Essex pulled out the victory even though it was hit with 25 penalty minutes.

The 73s were led by William Stadder, who had one goal. Stadder scored 8:11 into the third period to make the score 2-1 Essex. Adam Gaiarin assisted on the tally.

Referees had their hands full with a major incident at 12:05 into the third period. Four fighting penalties were dished out along with two game misconducts.

Essex did not reach the goal total it has come to expect this season. The 73s average 5.2 goals per game. Essex forced Blenheim goalie Klinton Kenney to work between the pipes, taking 34 shots.

Essex also got a goal from Matthew Hebert as well. In addition, Essex received assists from Brett Vorshuk, who had one.

The Blades were held below their usual level of production. Blenheim puts an average of 4.2 pucks into the net per game. The Blades were held back by their power play unit, which tallied one goal on 10 chances.

Blenheim was led by Brayden Hopkins, who scored the team's only goal. Hopkins scored on the power play 2:55 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Blenheim. A roughing penalty on Michael Vieira had put the Blades on the power play. Nick Delyzer picked up the assist.

The 73s' Wheaton stopped 25 shots out of the 26 that he faced. Essex registered zero goals on two power play opportunities. The 73s ran into serious disciplinary problems during the contest, and Tyler Turner was ejected from the game. Kenney recorded 32 saves for Blenheim. The Blades ended with 11 minutes in penalty time with three minors and one major. For Blenheim, Lucas Hickey was ejected from the game.