(Walpole, MA) -- The Walpole Express JR B team advanced to the second round of the Keegan Cup Playoffs for the second consecutive year. The Express were paired up with their division rival Pirates. The two teams met last year in the same situation this year was a little different series however. The Pirates came in and beat the Express on home in game one with a 3-2 victory.

Game two would be just as suspenseful as the Express rebounded to take a 3-2 victory on Portland’s home ice the following night.

“This was a great team win for us tonight,” said Head Coach Kevin Brooks. “We had to kill off a 6-3 with under a minute to go in the game to complete the victory. We had guys like Ryan Laughlin sacrificing their body all night and during that single minute he blocked 3 shots for us alone. In my eyes that is what one the game for us,” added Brooks

Game 3 was played in front of a sell out crowd at the Iorio arena. The Express made their way to a 4-2 victory, allowing them to move on to the next round.

“Tonight was great; the guys came out right from the start and capitalized on their opportunities,” said Assistant Coach Rob Miller. The Express jumped out to a 3-0 lead with first period goals by Lou Malvasi, Donovan Minutolo, and Ryo Miyazaki. “Tonight was a great effort for our team; we did a lot of little things and stuck to the game plan,” stated Brooks.

“The playoffs really bring out each teams best hockey and it’s the team that is willing to sacrifice and go the extra mile that is going to win. Tonight that was our team,” added Brooks.

Up next for the Express is the MJHL’s number one team, The Long Island Royals. The Royals will play host to all 3 games this weekend with games times at 3:30 P.M. Saturday, 12:00 P.M. Sunday, and 1:00 P.M. if necessary on Monday. Games 1 and 3 will be held at the Superior Ice arena, and game two is to be played at Ice Works in Syosset.

“I couldn’t more proud of our teams this weekend. The JR A team did a tremendous job beating the number one seeded Portland Pirates, and then to have Kevin and the boys take game 3 at home was great. There has been quite a buzz around Walpole lately and I want to encourage everyone to come out and catch some great playoff hockey this weekend,” added GM Rob Barletta.