In a gut-wrenching conclusion to their second-round series in the McMunn & Yates Turnbull Cup playoffs, the Virden Oil Capitals were edged out by the Winkler Flyers in a marathon quadruple-overtime battle, ending their season. The decisive Game 6, held at the Tundra Oil & Gas Place, epitomized playoff hockey at its most thrilling and exhausting, with both teams leaving everything on the ice.
The series had been a rollercoaster from the start, with the Oil Capitals initially dominating in a 4-0 shutout at the Winkler Centennial Arena. The momentum shifted back and forth over the next four games, with each team trading victories, including two nail-biting overtime losses for the Caps that set the stage for a do-or-die Game 6.
During last night’s climactic face-off, the intensity was palpable. The Flyers struck first with Zach Nicolas scoring at 8:31. The Oil Caps responded shortly after with Josh Lehto tying the game at 9:55, assisted by Cole Slobodian and David Bielik. The 1-1 scoreline persisted through the remainder of regulation, pushing the teams into overtime—a grueling test of endurance and resolve.
As the game stretched into its fourth overtime, players and fans alike were on the edge of their seats. Despite a spectacular breakaway save by Oil Caps goaltender Eric Reid, the Flyers’ Jakob Jones capitalized on a scrambled play, sending a shot from the half-wall into the net. This goal sealed a 2-1 victory for the Flyers and dashed the hopes of the Oil Caps for this season.
This intense series showcased the highs and lows of playoff hockey, with both teams demonstrating incredible skill, determination, and sportsmanship. As the Oil Capitals reflect on the season and this heart-stopping series conclusion, they also look ahead to building on their experiences and coming back stronger. The journey to the McMunn & Yates Turnbull Cup was filled with memorable moments that both players and fans will carry forward. The focus now shifts to off-season developments and preparations for a renewed challenge next year.
Now that our season has come to a close we would like to take the time to thank some of the people that make our program so successful on and off the ice. To our season ticket holders and fans, thank you for allowing us to play in front of the most dedicated fans in the MJHL. The energy inside Tundra Oil & Gas Place in the playoffs was amazing! To our many business partners that support us in so many ways, we couldn’t do what we do without you! To our incredible group of billet families, we are so grateful to you for treating our players and their families like your own. Thank you to our office staff and game day volunteers, you are second to none and we appreciate you so much. To our training and equipment staff, you are the best in the business. Thank you to our extremely dedicated scout group who is one of the best in junior hockey. These are just a few of the groups of people that make junior hockey a success in our amazing community and we are very very grateful for all your support.
Next up for the Oil Caps is our annual Comfort Inn and Suites Draft Eligible Spring Camp which gets underway on Friday April 19th and this leads into the annual MJHL Prospects Draft in early June. Keep an eye on our social media channels for all the up to date information on your Virden Oil Capitals. Help us Unleash the Energy!!