The Portage Islanders fell 5-3 to the Carman Beavers last night at the PCU Centre in the South Eastern Manitoba Hockey League.

The Islanders jumped out to a quick 1 nothing lead, thanks to a goal from Anders Strome. Portage continued to overwhelm the Beavers with a steady cycle in the first, and Tanner Waldvogel added another goal just under a minute later making it 2-0. Carman struck back though with a goal of their own at the 14-minute mark, Islanders' Eric Delong regained their 2 goal lead shortly after.

After that it was all Carman, as they scored 4 unanswered goals throughout 2 periods. Portage Islanders' GM Jeremy Brooks says a short bench is a killer in any league.

"I think we kind of just ran out of steam. We took a lead on them early, and then we kind of held our ground for most of the game. Then we kind of wore out toward the end of the game, and they took advantage of it."

Brooks feels if they sport a full bench, they can compete with any team in the league.

"I think if we get a little bit more commitment, and we get more guys out, then a couple key guys can make a difference in a game. If we bring our full roster I think we're a different team."

Yesterday's match was Portage's last home game of the season. They have 2 games remaining this season, Friday against Warren and Saturday against Altona.