The London Nationals relied on the sparkling performance of Connor Hughes in net to grab a 3-1 win against the LaSalle Vipers.

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

The Nationals were led by Scott Goodman, who had one goal. Goodman scored on the power play 16:19 into the second period to make the score 2-0 London. London earned a power play opportunity when Connor Matton was put in the box for holding. Kevin Madden picked up the assist.

The Nationals excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in five chances. London forced LaSalle goalie Paolo Battisti to work between the pipes, taking 35 shots.

London additionally got points from Tanner Ferreira, who also finished with one goal and two assists to lead the team in points and Austin Kemp, who also registered one goal and one assist. In addition, London received assists from Callum Ruddock and Trevor Dulong, who each chipped in one.

The Vipers kept the Nationals' goalie busy throughout the game, and Hughes made 32 saves on 33 shots.

LaSalle was led by Connor Rosaasen, who scored the team's only goal. Rosaasen scored short handed 10:20 into the third period to make the score 2-1 London. The Vipers were on a disadvantage when Cale Allen went off the ice for head contact. Zack Hoffman assisted on the tally.

London incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Paolo Battisti made 32 saves for LaSalle on 35 shots. The Vipers incurred 20 minutes in penalty time with five minors.