We knew the importance of the game. We did what we needed to do. Unfortunately it wasn't a win. And Portland didn't rally only for a last-minute effort. It was constant, something the team has struggled with all year.
Great players raise their level.
Portland entered the series as huge underdogs. Saint John finished with 100 points in the regular season and Portland had 72, nearly losing its spot in the postseason in the last 20 games. The first-round schedule favors the Flames greatly. Should Game 4 be forced, it will be back in Saint John. Returning to Portland for today's game could bring the little extra something the Pirates have needed.