The Estevan Bruins continue to sputter out of the gate in the new SJHL season.

The Bruins were beaten 6-3 Wednesday night by the Nipawin Hawks to fall to 1-3 on the year.

The game was tied at 3-3 heading to the third period before the Bruins gave up three goals early in the final frame.

Estevan did not have an answer for SJHL leading scorer Bryden Kiesman, who had a hat trick in the game, including the game winner in the third.

Bruins defenceman Aleksa Babic scored twice, with one of those coming on a penalty shot.

The Bruins will now prepare for the first instalment of the Highway 39 rivalry Friday night in Weyburn.