The Portage Islanders are happy to be home for game three in the South Eastern Manitoba Hockey League.

The Islanders fought hard Tuesday night to force overtime with under a minute to go, but the Notre Dame Hawks still skated away with the win.

Derrick Brooks was the one who tied the game with 48 seconds left in regulation to force the extra period. He knew it was going to be a tough game.

"In Notre Dame specifically, they have a bit of a smaller ice surface," says Brooks. "It's a bit of a different game. Not as much time and space with the puck, and you crash into bodies more."

He says the fans in Notre Dame are great at creating a hostile environment. He's hoping the Portage fans will help them out.

"We have a couple of new guys, including myself, that actually haven't been a part of the playoffs in the SEMHL yet," says Brooks. "I'm just really looking forward to continuing the series."

The first round playoff series is tied 1-1. Game time is 7:30 at Stride Place.