On Tuesday, December 19th, the Virden Oil Capitals wrapped up their 2023 campaign in a high-energy, gritty battle against the Winkler Flyers. The game, marked by its fast-paced and rough play, kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The opening period set the tone with intense, back-and-forth action. The physicality of the game was immediately evident, leading to the first penalty against the Flyers’ Tanner George for High Sticking at 14:47.
Momentum surged in the second period when Oil Caps’ forward Noel Englot found the back of the net at 8:18, thanks to a slick assist from Roux Bazin. This first goal injected an extra dose of energy into the game, with the Caps seizing a 1-0 lead. The period saw a flurry of penalties, highlighting the game’s intensity. The Caps’ Layton Veitch and the Flyers’ Trent Penner, Dalton Andrew, Connor Jensen, and Isaiah Peters all served penalties for infractions ranging from High Sticking to Roughing, with the Caps’ Grady Lane penalized for Unsportsmanlike Conduct.
As the final period unfolded, the intensity on the ice reached its peak. Naton Miller, demonstrating his scoring prowess, hammered in his 12th season goal at 9:46, extending the Caps’ lead to 2-0. Brett Sabel and Roux Bazin played pivotal roles in setting up this crucial goal. Nolan Chastko of the Caps faced a Tripping penalty at 05:15, adding to the game’s rough nature.
The Flyers’ Dalton Andrew and Trent Penner, along with the Caps’ Grady Lane, were all penalized for Roughing after the Whistle as the game concluded, with Lane also receiving a 10-Minute Misconduct penalty. These final moments encapsulated the game’s fierce competition and spirit.
In a game characterized by its rough, fast-paced action, the Virden Oil Capitals exhibited resilience, holding strong against the relentless pressure from the Winkler Flyers. This thrilling encounter was a fitting close to the year, showcasing the skill, determination, and resilience of the team.
The Virden Oil Capitals next home game is January 9th, 2024!!