I think Portland is a great hockey town, and I would love to see an NCAA regional there. I'll bet they do a great job. Also...
It has always appeared to me that Maine has been much more of a "statewide" school, and as a result Portland has supported them very well. Perhaps that has something to do with the flagship's mindset? I mean, remember when UMO won its first national title and Coach Walsh said right there on ESPN it was for the whole state? Something like from Kittery to Fort Kent? Compare that to those who claim to be supporters of the UNH program, but are much happier with mileposts more like Barrington to Newington...
As far as last year goes, don't forget a couple things. The Manchester game was on TV, at the same time the UNH football team was on ESPN, playing in the NCAA playoffs. And the Portland game was not on tv at all.