'Playing for the Humboldt Broncos': Nipawin Hawks down Steinbach Pistons in Game 1

While most Manitoba hockey fans had their eyes glued to the Jets-Predators second-round playoff series debut Friday night, many in Steinbachwere more focused on a Canadian Junior Hockey League tournament.

The arena was packed in the eastern Manitoba city as theSteinbachPistons took on Saskatchwan'sNipawin Hawks in Game 1 of a best-of-seven series for theAnavetCup.

The two Junior A teams battled it out with the Hawks coming out on top 4-3.

The Humboldt Broncos were travelling to play the Hawkswhen their charter bus and a semi-trailer collided on April 6,injuring 13 and killing 16.

Steinbach fan Karen Smith didn't mind that her team lost Friday night.

"I have a feeling the Nipawin Hawks are playing for the Humboldt Broncos, for all the people they lost and for all the people struggling to get back to normal. It's incredible to come and be able to watch Nipawin play," she said.

Game 2of the series for theAnavetCup takes placeSaturday night at 7:30 inSteinbach.