After building up a 3-0 lead early in period two the 73's had to hold on to grab the two points and move into first place all alone with a 3-2 win in Wheatley.
Essex came out hard in the opening 20 minutes firing 17 shots at Sharks net minder Dylan Zelko, and scoring twice on goals by Wyatt O'Neil and Michael Ruttinger.
Anthony Cristofaro scored early in the second period to give Essex a 3-0 lead.
Steve MacDonald and Mitch Lantin had the goals for the Sharks.
The 73's, winners of seven straight will faceoff at 7pm against the Blenheim Blades tonight in Essex.
The Blades are coming off a win over the Lakeshore Canadiens Sunday night.