WINNIPEG - Michael Mersch scored twice in the third period to lead the Ontario Reign in a 4-1 victory over the Manitoba Moose on Thursday in American Hockey League action.

Jamie McBain and Justin Auger also scored for Ontario (1-0-0).

Patrice Cormier had the lone goal for the Moose (0-1-0), on a power play 16:02 into the third.

Peter Budaj made 13 saves for the Reign.

Connor Hellebuyck stopped 21 shots for Manitoba.

Ontario was 0 for 3 on the power play while the Moose capitalized on 1-of-7 chances with the man advantage.