SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – For the second time in as many years, the Springfield Thunderbirds are in the postseason.

Game 1 of the playoffs was Wednesday night at the MassMutual Center but it wasn’t a good start. The T-Birds lost to the Hartford Wolf Pack 6-1. It’s the first time since 2003 that the two teams played one another in the Calder Cup playoffs.

The Thunderbirds enter the postseason after finishing fourth in the American Hockey League, with a 9 and 3 record against the Wolf Pack.

Before the game fans were optimistic about the T-Birds’ chances. “I really hope we sweep them. We beat them a couple of times during the season so hopefully, it’s going to be great,” says Thunderbirds fan, Rob Fitzpatrick.

A sweep, however, was not in the cards as the Thunderbirds lost to the Wolfpack 6-1 Wednesday night.

There is a friendly wager going on, if Springfield defeats Hartford in the best of three series, Hartford Mayor, Luke Bronin will gift Springfield Mayor, Domenic Sarno Hartford Flavor Company beverages and desserts from Hartford’s Modern Pastry Shop.

If the Wolfpack beat the T-Birds, Mayor Sarno will gift the Hartford Mayor Red Rose pizza and White Lion Brewing Company beer.

Game two is scheduled for Friday in Hartford. If the Thunderbirds win, a Game 3 will be held Saturday night at the MassMutual Center. If they lose Friday night, they will be eliminated.