The Battlefords North Stars defence of the Canalta Cup is on the verge of coming to an end.
After a 5-2 loss to the Estevan Bruins at Affinity Place Monday, the reigning Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League are now down 3-0 in the best-of-seven semifinal series and could be knocked out of the playoffs as soon as Tuesday night.
Although the North Stars held a 38-37 shot advantage, they were unable to stop Bruins forward Zach Goberis as the assistant captain potted a hat trick.
It was the second straight game that a Bruins player had scored three goals, as Tanner Manz accomplished that feat in a 7-2 romp Saturday at the Civic Centre.
Michael McChesney had a goal and two assists for the hosts, who improved their post-season record to 7-0.
Jake Fletcher also found the back of the net and Bo Didur turned aside 36 shots.
The North Stars were led on offence by Levi Kleiboer and MacGregor Sinclair as they had a goal and an assist each.
Layne Young had two assists in the loss, while Joel Grzybowski made 32 saves.
If the North Stars can stave off elimination Tuesday, in a game that will get underway at 7:30 p.m. in Estevan, the series will return to the Civic Centre for game five Thursday night.
Meanwhile, the other semifinal matchup will resume at the Elgar Petersen Arena in Humboldt Tuesday as the Nipawin Hawks will look to take a 3-0 lead over the Humboldt Broncos.
