The Virden Oil Capitals kept their playoff momentum rolling Saturday night, defeating the Neepawa Titans 4-1 at the Yellowhead Centre to take a strong early lead in the series.
The Caps wasted no time asserting control, exploding with four goals in the opening period. Draper came out flying, opening the scoring just 3:27 into the first period as he buried his first of the night, set up by Drake.
Virden continued to apply pressure, with Hoilett extending the lead, finishing a play from Deschamps and Osiowy. The momentum stayed firmly on Virden’s side as Draper struck again, picking up his second of the game with assists from Laing and Plaisier.
Before the period ended, Bryant added another, converting a setup from Lewko and Osiowy to give the Oil Caps a commanding 4-0 lead after one period.
After the explosive first period, the Oil Caps shifted into a structured, defensive game, shutting down Neepawa’s opportunities through the middle frame.The Titans managed to get on the board in the third period, with Harris scoring, but that would be as close as Neepawa would come.
Goaltender Burdeny continued his strong playoff form, turning aside 26 of 27 shots to backstop the Oil Caps to victory. At the other end, Neepawa’s Burleigh faced heavy pressure, making 31 saves on 35 shots.
Virden outshot the Titans 35-27, including a dominant 12-10 edge in the first period where the game was effectively decided.
While neither team capitalized on the power play, Virden’s depth and balanced attack proved to be the difference. Multiple players contributed offensively, with Draper leading the way with two goals, while Osiowy recorded two assists.
Final Score:
Virden Oil Capitals 4
Neepawa Titans 1
