The Norwich Merchants tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the Burford Bulldogs held on for a 4-3 victory.

Burford made the score 4-2 on a goal by Jesse Brooks at 19:09 in the third period, and Norwich got as close as 4-3 when Ryan Dayman scored 19:56 into the third period.

The Bulldogs were sparked by Brooks, who registered one goal and one assist.

Burford's penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on four Norwich power plays.

Burford also got points from Scott Penwarden, who also had one goal and two assists to lead the team in points. Burford also had goals scored by Gabe Bruder and Mitch Randell, who each put in one. More assists for Burford came via Owen Hinch, Jesse Szabo, and Jensen DaSilva, who each chipped in one.

The Merchants stifled the Bulldogs' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Burford was unable to stop Norwich from sending pucks towards the net, and the Merchants eventually piled up 35 shots on goal.

Norwich was helped by Zack Morrison, who tallied one goal. Morrison scored 10:15 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Norwich. Adam Harris picked up the assist. Daniel Rizzo also scored for Norwich. In addition, Norwich received assists from Troy Lamoure, who had two and Jesse Dunn, Brandon Velda, and Riley Monture, who contributed one each.

Jack Stockdale recorded 32 saves for the Bulldogs. Burford incurred 22 minutes in penalty time with six minors. The Merchants' Andrew Lefebvre stopped 25 shots out of the 29 that he faced. Norwich ended with 13 minutes in penalty time with four minors and one major. For the Merchants, Michael Young was ejected from the game.