The Portage Terriers bounced back from an early goal against last night to beat the Niverville Nighthawks 3-1. The Terriers have a 3-1 series lead and have a chance to advance to the second round on Friday night.
Jayden Catellier got his first start of the playoffs in net for the Terriers and was tested early. For the fourth game in a row Niverville scored first. Four minutes into the game, off of a face off win, Josh Paulhus sniped a shot over the shoulder of Catellier. Similar to the first three games, Portage responded right away. Slade Stanick tied the game off a rebound 40 seconds after the Nighthawks goal. Less than two minutes later Terrier affiliated player Brett Magarrell scored his first MJHL goal off the rush. 2-1 Portage.
With time winding down in the first period the Nighthawks and Terriers took penalties 15 seconds apart. While at 4-on-4 and with five seconds left in the period Mike Stubbs beat Niverville goalie Chris Fines low glove side to extend the lead. 3-1 Portage.
The Terriers put the game on lockdown for the next two periods playing a tight checking style. Niverville had some solid chances with the net empty late in the third period but Catellier was up to the task. He finished the night with 29 saves and his first playoff win.
Portage now gets ready to host Niverville Friday night at Stride Place at 7:30 pm.