The Portage Terriers started off their best of 7 MJHL semi final on the right note, beating the Winnipeg Blues 3-1 last night at the PCU Centre. For the Terriers it was their 25th straight win dating back to the regular season. The Blues were coming off of an emotional game 7 win over Virden and came out with a bang to start the first period. They finished off every hit they could, often playing the body instead of the puck. It was an even first period, with Portage leading in the shot department 10-9. Terrier captain Brad Bowles says the physical play has it's advantages.

"It gives a boost a little bit, just trying to match their game. We just had to work hard."

In the second the physical play slowed down, but the Terriers picked up momentum in the second half getting some great chances to close out the frame. As time expired Chase Brakel took an elbowing penalty which he served at the start of the third period.

While short handed, 36 seconds into the third, Brad Bowles kicked the puck from the corner to Nick Henry who out waited Scott Parsons and slid it in. The Blues would show some life as they got another power play moment later and Taeron Lewis tied the game with a backhand that tipped up and over Nathan Park.

The play settled down for a while before Nick Henry would get his second of the night. As the Terriers gained the attacking zone the Blues defencemen took Brad and Shawn Bowles leaving Nick Henry a wide open breakaway which he finished with a pretty deke. Shawn Bowles would score on a breakaway later in the period to put the game out of reach. Brad Bowles assisted on all 3 goals. Nathan Park made some clutch saves for Portage, especially late in the game to keep it 3-1. He made 22 saves for the win.

Terrier defenceman Dean Stewart talks about their game plan.

"They are a hard nose team and they play hard. For us, we need to get pucks on net and make Parsons' day hard"

The Terriers now head to Winnipeg for game 2 on Monday night. Puck drop is at 7pm, with the pre-game show at 6:50 on CFRY and Portageonline.com.

For the complete box score CLICK HERE.