The Essex 73s beat the Amherstburg Integrity Admirals, 3-1, in a contest where the winning goal was scored in the first period but the game remained close throughout.

Luke Gecse provided Essex with the game-winning tally when he scored 13:37 into the first period. Eric Shaw picked up the assist.

After the loss made the series score 3-2 in the best of seven series, Amherstburg faces elimination next time out.

The 73s were sparked by Matthew Hebert, who had one goal. Hebert scored 6:02 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Essex. Tyler Scott provided the assist.

Essex forced the Integrity Admirals goalie Connor Meyerink to work between the pipes, taking 32 shots.

William Stadder also scored for Essex. More assists for Essex came via Riley Meyerink and Adam Gaiarin, who contributed one each.

Amherstburg was led by Luke Gangnon, who scored the team's only goal. Gangnon scored on the power play 14:17 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Essex. The Integrity Admirals had gained a power play chance when Gecse was whistled for interference. James Brooks assisted on the tally.

Matt Badour recorded 20 saves for the 73s. Essex incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors. Amherstburg's Meyerink stopped 29 shots out of the 32 that he faced. The Integrity Admirals incurred 18 minutes in penalty time with four minors.