The series continues. The Portage Terriers fell 3-2 last night to the Steinbach Pistons in game five of the best of seven MJHL semi-finals. It was another back and forth affair once again separated by a single goal.

The trend continues; the team that scores first loses the game. Terrier forward Chase Brakel opened the scoring late in the first period off the rush. He was able to collect his own rebound and jam it in at the side of the net; Turner Santin and Jeremey Leipsic had the assists.

Steinbach has had success early in periods, and less than a minute into the second they found the back of the net. With Brakel in the box for hooking, Danny Pion's point shot beat a screened Brock Aiken. Portage would regain their lead seven minutes later when Brakel avenged his earlier penalty. He took a pass from Turner Santin in the slot and snapped it through the legs of Roman Bengert. They would trade chances for the remainder of the second with both goalies making key saves. The Terriers had a one-minute five on three power play but were unable to capitalize.

The Pistons would tie it up early in the third period with Terrier defenseman Mackenzie Dwyer in the box for tripping. Mark Taraschuck fired a shot off the end glass, off the skate of Aiken and into the net. With over five minutes to play, Steinbach would take their first lead of the game. Braden Purtill grabbed a loose puck at the side of the net and put a perfect shot over the shoulder of Aiken. The Thunder Bay product finished the night with 18 saves.

Even with the net empty Portage was unable to tie it up. The Terriers now have a 3-2 series lead with a chance to wrap it up on home ice. Game six will go Tuesday night, 7:30 pm at Stride Place. The winner of this series will advance to play OCN in the MJHL final.

For the complete box score click here.