MINERSVILLE - Coming into its match-up with Tri-Valley in the Schuylkill League quarterfinals, Panther Valley was riding a 24-set win streak.

Since a loss to Nativity back on Sept. 20, the Panthers (16-2) defeated eight straight opponents, playing consistent volleyball and leaning on their skill from the service line to create momentum heading into postseason play.

On Monday against the Bulldogs, PV did not stray away from its recent winning formula as it advanced to the semifinals with a 3-0 victory, 25-10, 25-18, 25-23.

The Panthers came out strong in the first with a 25-10 win, yet again showcasing their prowess in the serving department.

Tri-Valley and Panther Valley met back on Sept. 22 with the Panthers coming away with a 3-0 victory, meaning confidence was high at the start of this one for PV.

“I think our girls came in confident and ready to play at the start of the match,” said Panther Valley head coach Emilie Baker.

“I thought our serving and outside hitting early on was very strong, and that’s what helped us get out to the good start. But credit to Tri-Valley, they came out and played tough in the second and third sets.”

The Bulldogs did improve their play in the second and third, scoring 18 points in the second and then hung with the Panthers in the third to lose by just a two-point deficit.

“I like how we came out, but then I think the girls got a little comfortable and Tri-Valley took advantage of that,” said Baker. “I think we were fighting a little nerves as well, but we have to make sure when we come out strong that we finish strong and not go backwards. But the girls were able to fight through it and get the win.”

The Panthers will now head to the semifinals, which is becoming a known landscape for the program, as they have been a regular in the Schuylkill League postseason over the past decade. PV, with a relatively young squad will take all the postseason experience it can get.

“The playoff experience is great for the younger girls. We do have some freshman that see significant time, so as they play more in a playoff atmosphere, they will only get more confident,” said Baker.

LEADERS ... Riley McArdle led the way for the Panthers on offense with 19 kills and 14 digs. Morgan Orsulak put together a productive night, as well, with 26 assists, 11 digs and three kills. Natalie Vermillion added eight kills and 16 digs.

NEXT UP ... The Panthers will now move on to the semifinals tonight where they will face Nativity at 5:30 p.m. at Martz Hall in Pottsville.