The Niverville Nighthawks are one win away from their first league championship after defeating the Virden Oil Capitals 6-3 in Game 3 of the Turnbull Cup finals on April 21, 2026. The win at the Niverville Community Resource & Recreation Centre gives the team a 3-0 series lead in the best-of-seven matchup, moving them closer to securing the first title in the franchise’s history, as they entered the league in 2022.
The Nighthawks have maintained a strong performance throughout the playoffs, holding a 10-1 record as they compete for the championship. Goaltender Austin Dubinsky played a major role in the Game 3 victory, turning aside a playoff-high 39 shots. While the team allowed three goals for the first time during this postseason run, the offensive effort led by team captain Adam Vigfusson and forward Merik Boles helped seal the win.
Vigfusson, a first-team league all-star, scored his 10th goal of the playoffs during the game. Boles contributed two goals, including the game-winner, which he scored eight minutes and 35 seconds into the second period. This season has been notable for the team, which finished the regular season with a league-best 51-6-1 record and saw head coach Dwight Hirst earn the honour of being named the league’s Coach of the Year.
This finals appearance marks a historic moment for the Nighthawks, as neither the Niverville franchise nor the Virden Oil Capitals have previously won the Turnbull Cup. The Nighthawks now look to complete the series sweep as the teams continue their postseason battle.
