It was a massive contest on Tuesday night, one that the Virden Oil Capitals desperately needed to get points but despite outshooting the Waywayseecappo Wolverines, they couldn't manage to find the back of the net, falling 1-0.
The first period had both teams going through the motions. Virden carried the play for stretches but it was in the back half of the period where they had their best chance to get on the board.
Consecutive penalties put the Oil Caps on the man-advantage for almost four straight minutes but the road team couldn't manufacture a goal.
Shots were 13-6 in favour of Virden but the score remained 0-0.
Under five minutes into the second, the Wolverines pounced, scoring to take a 1-0 lead.
Again, Virden pushed back, but despite the effort, the 1-0 lead held going into the third.
Once again, it was Virden outshooting Waywayseecappo in the second period 11-8.
In the third, the tide changed a bit. The Wolverines brought the pressure and Loic Morin was called upon several times to come up with big time saves, keeping his team in the fight.
With around five minutes remaining, the Oil Caps were called for a penalty. Morin came up big making some timely saves again.
As time ran out, Virden searched for the equalizer but it just wasn't meant to be as the Wolverines held on to win 1-0.
Final shots 32-28 for Virden.
It was a massive two points for Waywayseecappo who moves three points clear of the Oil Caps for the 4th and final playoff spot. Virden still has a game in hand.
Good news for Virden is they won't have time to dwell, they're right back in action on Wednesday night when they visit the Winnipeg Blues.