The Portage Islanders are disappointed in their start to the South Eastern Manitoba Hockey League semi-finals. The Islanders dropped a 6-5 decision in overtime last night in Game 1 of their best-of-five-series with the Ste. Anne Aces.
Portage had a 4-2 lead in the third period but the Aces were able to get within one goal and then tie the game on a 5-on-3 power-play. Tanner Lesann made it 5-4 for the Islanders with a little over three minutes to go, however, Ste Anne was able to find the back of the net with just 45 seconds left in regulation.
In overtime, both teams had a plethora of chances, but it was the Aces who capitalized, and they now head back home for Game 2 in the driver's seat. Former Terrier Brendan Walker scored the game-winner for the Aces and finished the night with 4 points.
Islanders team captain Jens Meilleur describes the biggest factor in Game 1.
"The penalties. We took way too many penalties, and that's what killed us in the end," Meilleur explains. "They had three 5-on-3s, and that slows our pace of the game down. It cost us at the end of the day."
Meilleur believes if they can stay disciplined, they should have a very good chance at coming back to Portage for Game 3 with the series tied up.
"I think we have a lot of depth and skill up front. If we use that to our advantage, play hard, keep the puck deep, and keep them on their heels, I think we have a good chance."
The Islanders and Aces will play Game 2 on Saturday in Ste. Anne, with puck drop set for 7:30.
Sat, Apr 20, 9:00 AM
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