The PCI Trojans begin their Zone 4 High School Hockey Playoffs today against the Carman Cougars at the PCU Centre.

The Trojans finished the season in 3rd place, 2 points back of Morden. Portage is 2-1 against Carman this season, taking their last meeting 9-3 at the PCU Centre. Trojans' GM Mark Essay says they need to shake off any nerves early.

"I think they're excited, but they're also nervous. There's been a lot of games this year where we haven't gone in mentally prepared -- and it's cost us -- and one of them was against Carman. I'm glad it happened in the regular season, so I figure they want the win bad enough that they'll push through."

Essay hopes for a good crowd tonight, so they can put good use to their home ice advantage.

"For sure, playoffs is always awesome in Portage la Prairie. There's always a lot of people out, so hopefully we can put on a good show."

Tonight's game is scheduled for 7:45 at the PCU Centre.