The Zephyrs hosted Pleasant Valley Monday and defeated the Bears 5-1 under the lights. That win boosts their record to 8-1-1 (after the rescheduled Pocono Mountain West game), placing thema half-game behind Emmaus for the lead in the Skyline Division of the EPC. The Zephs could have sole possession of first if they beat the Hornets later this week.

Monday's win featured five different players finding the back of the cage, with Kassidy Cunningham getting the Zephs on the board early.

After that score, the Zephs never really looked back, allowing a late second period goal. However, they answered right back as Rachel Schannauer put in the final goal to cement the victory.

The bookend goals were assisted by Cara Bonshak who also had a goal of her own. Bonshak now has four assists on the season to complement her four goals.

Head coach Emily Repsher said the win was highlighted by their ability to make good passes. Schannauer was extremely adept at making long upfield passes, quickly shifting the Zephs from defense to offense. Her ability to initiate that transition provides a surge for the offense.

"It creates a lot of momentum up the field," said Repsher. "We were able to pass around them and it created some good momentum going into their end."

Once they got the ball into the circle, they had Bonshak stationed at the goal post to slap in any rebounds. Repsher said that both she and Kassidy Cunningham get a lot of goals off rebounds, where positioning is key.

They also boast one of the most prolific offenses in the EPC. Kourtney Cunningham has 16 goals so far this season, while Kassidy Cunningham has knocked in eight, and Kylee Cunningham has chipped in with seven.

Schannauer is also someone who can give a goalkeeper fits. She has six goals this year, while Taylor George has five.

Also scoring in Monday's win was Tianna Rivers, notching her second goal of the year.

While the Zephs dominated the action as evidenced by winning the penalty corner battle 19-1, they also played strong defense to keep their winning streak in tact. They allowed just two shots.

"I believe we have a good defensive corps," said Repsher.

Their success this season has them firmly established among the top teams in the EPC. Repsher believes their playing with a lot of poise and that's what's fueled their success.

"It's just confidence and not really worrying about it," said Repsher. "We're taking it one game at a time and not really worrying about the other team."

She said they're simply focused on coming out each game and playing their best. She said they just worry about themselves.

"We're just trying to be the best team out here," she said.

Next up for the Zephs are Emmaus and Parkland.