The Winkler Flyers will play in the quarterfinals on Friday at the 2024 Centennial Cup.

Ludovic Dufort potted the shootout winner as the Miramichi Timberwolves defeated the Manitoba Junior Hockey League champions 3-2 Tuesday night in Oakville, Ontario.

Connor Jensen scored both goals for the Flyers who finished the preliminary round in third place in Group B with two regulation wins and two shootout losses. 

"Good adversity and experience for our group," texted head coach Justin Falk who saw his team's shot at first place and a bye to the semifinals come to an end. Knew we would eventually face this moment. Good to get some rest here over the next few days before the most desperate and exciting hockey this team and young men will face this season."

The Maritime Junior Hockey League champions led 2-1 after the first period as Elliot Robert and Justin David scored 23 seconds apart late in the opening frame.

The game was tied 2-2 after 40 minutes.

Winkler netminder Malachi Klassen made 22 saves while Miramichi's Adam Rouleau stopped 40 shots including all 16 he faced in the third period. 

The Flyers will face either the Calgary Canucks or Navan Grads in the quarterfinals.