Despite struggling with their penalty kill, the Stratford Warriors defeated Elmira 5-3 to win Game 2 of their Conference semifinal. That series is now tied 1-1.
The Sugar Kings were 3-6 on the power play including two goals with the man advantage two minutes apart late in the third. Stratford's defence was able to hold on to a one goal lead until Kaleb Pearson scored his second of the game. It came with less than a minute left on an empty Sugar Kings net to give the Warriors some insurance.
Pearson also had an assist in the win. Graham Brulotte scored the game winner at 2:34 of the third.
Ryan Cullen and Connor Gregga also scored for the Warriors, both on the power play.
The Sugar Kings were let by Ethan Skinner with a goal and two assists.
Ruan Badenhorst earned the win with 30 saves. Tyler Mazzocato stopped 31 shots for the Sugar Kings.
Game 3 is tonight at the Allman Arena in Stratford at 7:30 p.m.
