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Blackhawks Fans Optimistic Team Will Turn It Around

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Blackhawks return to home ice Monday night to take on the St. Louis Blues.

CBS 2's Jim Williams reports there were cloudy skies outside the United Center, but the weather didn't reflect the mood. Blackhawks fans are optimistic, even though they trail in the series 2-0.

"I'm nervous but I have faith," said Alison Ortschaid.

Hawks fans said they have faith because the team is back home after losing the first two in St. Louis.

"Crowd's going to be intense and it's going to be a raucous atmosphere," said Matt Lauer.

"I feel we get the home crowd and we have to win now. We can't go down 3 nothing," said David Dodge.

Mark Ortschaid wore the jersey of the Hawks player suspended for a vicious hit in Saturday's game and said Chicago needed to show the Blues some toughness, even if it cost them an important contributor.

"The trade-off is worth it. Let them know if they want to play that type of game, we can play that type of game," said Orschaid.

Love of the Blackhawks, hometown pride may drive the fans but for Gunzo's Sports down the street from the United Center, a deep run into the playoffs is good for business.

"We get more casual fans the further they go," said Steve Jankowski.

But, even if the Hawks lose Monday night, the fans insist history shows their team never gives up.

"Down 3-1 to Detroit, everything was on the line and we came back and won it," said Lauer.

As usual. the Hawks have been dominant at home this season: 27-7-7. The fans are hoping for win 28 tonight.

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