The Lambton Shores Predators tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Strathroy Rockets held on for a 4-2 victory.

Strathroy made the score 4-1 on a goal by Max Ewart at 46 seconds in the third period, and Lambton Shores got as close as 4-2 when Andrew Kim scored 3:34 into the third period.

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

Strathroy kept Lambton Shores' goalie busy throughout the game, and Keegan Paulette made 47 saves on 51 shots. The Rockets could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 26 minutes in penalties during the game.

Strathroy was helped by TJ Harris, who racked up one goal. Harris scored 15:39 into the first period to make the score 2-0 Strathroy. Steve Griggs picked up the assist. Strathroy additionally got points from Griggs, who also had one goal and one assist and Lucas Latina, who also registered one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Other players who recorded assists for Strathroy were Shane Bulitka, Nick Griffin, Kieran Milne, Jeff Williams, and Noah Tooke, who contributed one each.

The Predators' offense rang up 38 shots on the Rockets' net.

Lambton Shores also got a goal from Ben Woo as well. In addition, Lambton Shores received assists from Calvin Hughson, Connor Merritt, and Colin Burns, who each chipped in one.

Dane Gubbels recorded 36 saves for Strathroy. The Rockets registered one goal on five power play opportunities. Lambton Shores incurred 30 minutes in penalty time with five minors.