The Portage Terriers couldn’t find any offence in Virden on Thursday night, falling 3-0 to the Oil Capitals. The best-of-7 semi final series is all tied at 2 heading back to Portage on Friday night. 

Portage started the game two skaters short due to illness. As a result Virden was able to apply pressure for much of the game. The tight defence of the Oil Capitals stifled many Terrier chances. Portage was outshot 11-5 in the first. 

The second period was similar to the first with Portage struggling to find opportunities. Things opened up late in the period but the Terrier chances were quickly shutdown by Virden goalie Eric Reid. 0-0 after 2. 

Midway through the third period the Oil Capitals finally broke through. David Bielik’s point shot went through a screen in front of Terrier goalie Bailey Monteith to make it 1-0. The intensity ramped up from both sides and Virden scored another minutes later. Colton Miller was left alone at the side of the net and he snapped a shot over Monteith’s shoulder from the face off circle. 

With time winding down Portage tried to get on the board but Andrew Blocker sealed the game with an empty net goal. Virden outshot Portage 43-22. The refs let both teams figure the game out, only calling a handful of penalties. Portage didn’t get a single power play and Virden went 0/2. 

The Terriers are back at home for game five tonight at Stride Place. Puck drop is at 7:30pm.