The Stratford Cullitons tried to dig themselves out of a two-goal hole, but the London Nationals held on for a 3-2 victory.

A goal by Tyler Sehovic put London up 3-1 in the second period, but Stratford pulled to within one on Joe Leahy's tally 11:00 into the third period.

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

The Nationals' penalty kill excelled, as London gave up one goal despite allowing six power plays.

Others who scored for London included Scott Dorion and John Adams, who each put in one. Other players who recorded assists for London were Brenden Trottier, who had two and Eric Guest, Kyle Robinson, Colin Wilson, and Max Vinogradov, who contributed one each.

Stratford kept the Nationals' goalie busy throughout the game, and Connor Hughes made 35 saves on 37 shots. The Cullitons did not rack up many penalties in the contest, registering only one minor for two minutes in penalty time.

Stratford was helped by Justin Graham, who registered one goal. Graham scored on the power play 11:22 into the second period to make the score 2-1 London. A high sticking penalty on Vinogradov had put the Cullitons on the power play. Deven Kropf picked up the assist. In addition, Stratford received assists from Zander Pryor, Hayden Broomhead, and Zach Van Louwe, who each chipped in one.

London incurred 12 minutes in penalty time with six minors. Alexander Brooks-Potts rejected 27 shots on goal for Stratford. For the Cullitons, Jared Nash was ejected from the game.