(Walpole, MA) -- The Walpole Express swept the Portland Junior Pirates this past weekend in a best of three series. The Express outscored Portland 13-1, winning the first game in Portland 6-0 and the second game at home 7-1. It is the first time in the 3 year history of the Express that they have advanced to the Semi-Final Round of the AJHL playoffs.

“We never expected the series to go the way it did. Portland is a great team and they are well coached, they had a great season. Our boys played hard, both teams played hard, but that is what happens in the playoffs only one team advances. We were lucky enough to get the opportunity,” said Rob Barletta.

For the Express veteran goaltender Seth McNary stole the show stopping 48 of the 49 shots that were thrown his way during the series. McNary has won goaltender of the week three different times in the AJHL this season and he proved this weekend that he is worthy.

“Seth showed up and made some big saves that could have changed the tides of the game. He is a gamer and we are lucky to have him that is for sure. He is a competitor and a leader and he has this team motivated,” said Rob Miller.

Forwards Andrew Wilcox, Mike Lysyj, Matt French, Steve Lucchetti and Kyle Tejchma all put up some impressive numbers in the first round for the Express. The forwards were able to produce 55 shots over the two games against Portland scoring 13 goals against the best defensive team in the league.

The offense, defense and goaltending all seemed to be firing on all cylinders for the Express.

“To win in the playoffs everyone has to be going and everyone has to be on the same page. We really prepared for this series and our guys responded. The scores did not show it but both teams really battled hard in both games. It was fun to watch and fun to coach, I never thought we would come out as strong as we did. I am very proud of our guys, but our job is not done yet. One round does not win the playoffs,” said Chris Cerrella.

The Express will wait out the final games of the first round to see who they play in the semi-final round.