Playoffs is right around the corner, and the Bobcat hockey team is looking for a final push into the top spots for a chance to take the Championship.

With only four games left in the regular season for the Bobcats, every point possible counts. Beaver Area currently sits at fifth place in the Varsity A Blue division, and the top

The first of these four important games took place January 25 against the Freeport Yellowjackets. The Bobcats had previously beaten the Yellowjackets in October, so they looked to build on that previous success.

It was a low scoring but highly penalized game, with the Cats’ two goals coming from senior Tanner Nicol in the first and sophomore Gabe Forney in the second.

The Bobcats ultimately won 2-0 after senior goalie Caleb Berardelli saved 29 of 29 shots on goal.

The next game for the Bobcats was a rematch against the struggling 0-17 Westmont Hilltop team at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena in Johnstown.

After defeating the Hilltoppers 10-3 previously, the Cats were not going to let a playoff spot slip away from them in this game.

Scoring started early for Beaver Area with freshman Evan Schmidt striking first four minutes into the period. Goals from senior Carson Cuddy and Forney put the Bobcats in a 3-0 lead at the end of the first.

The second period proved to be even more exciting with four goals scored by the Bobcats and none by the Hilltoppers. Cuddy scored two early on in the second to complete a hat trick less than 30 minutes into the game. These two were followed by goals from junior Zack Masters and Forney again.

Nicol was the only scorer in the third period, propelling the Bobcats to an impressive 8-0 victory. Berardelli recorded his fourth shutout of the season saving all 19 shots on goal during the game.

“Our team has really done a good job rallying together for our last few games. We’re on the way to a playoff spot,” said Masters.

This win solidifies Beaver Area’s record at 9-7-0-1-1 with only two games left in the season coming tonight and 22. Check the next ECHO for results.