The Steinbach Pistons took a 2-1 lead in their best-of-seven playoff series after beating the Portage Terriers 6-2 in Steinbach, Manitoba, on March 25, 2026. This victory gives the team an advantage as they move into the middle of the first round of the league playoffs.
Jackson Kostiuk and Liam Doyle led the scoring for the team, and both players are now tied for the most total points in the MJHL playoffs. Kostiuk currently leads the league in playoff goals with five. Goaltender Chris Quizi made 27 saves during the game, which included stopping all 17 shots he faced in the final period to keep the lead secure.
This series is a rematch from last season when the Portage Terriers knocked Steinbach out of the playoffs. The Pistons were successful against Portage during the recent regular season, winning five out of six games and outscoring them 29-8 during those matchups.
Team captain Sam Noad says the players are focused on winning this year and are willing to put in the necessary effort to succeed. The series continues with Game 4 on March 27, 2026, in Portage la Prairie, before returning to Steinbach for Game 5 on March 28, 2026.
