Postseason play is right around the corner, and on Wednesday, the Colonial League matchup between Northwestern and Palmerton portrayed a playoff type atmosphere.

Goals didn’t come easy, but it was the Tigers’ impressive first-half play that helped them earn an important late-season 2-1 victory over the Bombers.

A key to Northwestern’s win on the afternoon was its strong start on both sides of the field. The Tigers were able to hold a 2-0 advantage at the half, with Daniella Lister scoring the first goal of the match at the 5:27 mark of the first period, and Brinley Rex adding a goal in the second period at 5:03.

Northwestern’s passing during the first half served as the catalyst to its offensive success.

“We started out strong, getting out to that 2-0 lead, and also had a goal called back, so we were getting good offensive pressure,” said Northwestern head coach Lissa Opolsky. “Our passing sequences were really good during the first half, and we moved the ball quickly and on target.

“Our passing is a strength of our team; we like to spread the ball around, and that’s what enabled us to sustain an offensive attack in the first half.”

Palmerton came out in the second half with some urgency, and was able to close within one goal in the third period off a Kira Hauser goal around the three-minute mark.

Alisyn Green found Hauser for the goal, but the story of the day for the Bombers was missed opportunities. Palmerton was able to create some offensive opportunities throughout the match, but consistently couldn’t cash in.

“We definitely had our chances today, but we just weren’t able to finish, and we definitely had some missed opportunities,” said Palmerton head coach Megan Leadbetter. “And Northwestern had a good day passing and moving the ball, so credit to them.

“Moving forward, we just need to be more aggressive, and get that final touch on the ball to put it in the goal when we have good opportunities to score.”

Northwestern - which went through a scoring lull in the second half - played tough defense in the fourth period to close out the win. Tigers goalie Gabby Gober was busy in front of the goal, as she was able to come up with 14 saves. Gober’s performance in the fourth period helped Northwestern escape Fireline Road with the win.

“Today was definitely one of Gabby’s best games. She’s a senior, and she’s experienced and she showcased today the ability that she has,” said Opolsky. “She is one of six seniors that have been really important to our success this season, and that will continue to be important for us as we close in on the postseason. We just have to keep getting better. We want to peak at the right time, and make a run in the playoffs.”

EVENLY-MATCHED

… Northwestern was able to edge Palmerton, but the stats were almost dead even. The Tigers had 17 shots on goal, while Palmerton had 16, and each team had 10 penalty corners.

PLAYOFF RATINGS

… As the playoffs near, Northwestern (8-4) ranks third in District 11 Class 1A, while Palmerton (7-6) currently sits in the fourth spot.