Carter Johnson scores three times in the third period and Francois Brassard makes 35 saves to even the first-round series, 2-2.

Maine avoids a 3-0 series deficit when Alex-Olivier Voyer scores 14:52 into overtime.

Maine erases two deficits but can’t overcome a third, and now has an uphill climb as the first-round ECHL series shifts to Portland.

Charlie Gerard’s goal with 3:54 remaining gives the Royals a 1-0 lead in the first-round series.

The Mariners face the Reading Royals in rematch of last year’s ECHL North Division semifinals.

Portland’s pro hockey team concludes its regular season this weekend at Cross Insurance Arena, and will meet Reading in a best-of-seven playoff series starting next week.