The Ancaster Avalanche survived a determined comeback attempt by the Thorold Blackhawks on the way to a 4-3 win.

Ancaster took a 4-2 lead during the third period, only to have Thorold storm back on a Griffin Roubos goal 15:04 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

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

Ancaster was led by Ben Hughes, who tallied two goals. Hughes scored the first of his two goals at 19:28 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Ancaster. Michael Pollice assisted on the tally. Hughes' next tally made the score 3-2 Ancaster with 15:14 left in the third period. Ancaster also had goals scored by Matt Mannella and Joshua Pace, who scored one goal each. In addition, Ancaster received assists from Jesse Hilton, Donato Cipriano, Lucas Pozzobon, and Ryan Knill, who each chipped in one.

The Blackhawks excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances. Team's forwards weren't the only contributers offensively, and the team's defensemen showcased their scoring touch with three goals.

Thorold was led by Jake Lloyd, who registered two goals. Lloyd scored the first of his two goals on the power play at 16:57 into the first period to make the score 1-1. A slashing penalty on Fedor Gordeev had put the Blackhawks on the power play. Cal Davis picked up the assist. Lloyd's next tally on the power play made the score 2-2 with 19:01 left in the third period. Perth Swick provided the assist. More assists for Thorold came via David D`Agostino, who had one and Brendan D`Agostino, who had two.

Cole Ceci made 17 saves for the Avalanche on 20 shots. Ancaster incurred 32 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Josh Astorino rejected 21 shots on goal for Thorold. The Blackhawks incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors.