Northampton’s team in the Lehigh Valley Connie Mack (LVCM) League is optimistic it can enter the upcoming postseason with some momentum.

However, they will have their work cut out for them.

Northampton will finish the regular season this week with games against Lehigh Bethlehem and Catasauqua, both teams that could stand in their way of getting an elevated spot in the standings.

They recently suffered a hard-fought , 5-3 loss to Bethlehem Catholic, but they bounced back with a convincing 10-2 suspended/completed victory over Pen Argyl.

“Bethlehem Catholic is a tough team,” said Northampton head coach Steve Kerbacher. “They are very talented and very disciplined. It was a great game to watch, but a tough game to lose.

“We jumped out to a 4-0 lead against Pen Argyl before the game was suspended due to a thunderstorm. Pen Argyl was a little depleted because they lost three players to the legion team.

“But we got some timely hitting and great pitching in that game.”

Kerbacher credited the mound performances of Andrew Kovalchik and Mike Kuzio, who combined for the victory over Pen Argyl. Terry Graver initially started the game before it was suspended.

Kovalchik, Graver, and Evan Zwolenik will represent Northampton in the LVCM All-Star Game at Limeport, Saturday, July 8.

“Kovalchik has really pitched well for us all season and he had been a force both offensively and defensively,” said Kerbacher. “When he (Kovalchik) isn’t pitching, he has done a great job behind the plate.

“Kuzio had really stepped it up for us. He missed the first four games, but he has been solid on the mound and at shortstop for us since then. He has been a huge hitter for us.”

Kerbacher also praised the play of Anthony George, who has been a steady contributor throughout the season.

Northampton began the week with an overall 11-6 mark, and they can end the regular season anywhere from the third to seventh spot in the standings.

“If we would have beaten Bethlehem Catholic, we had a good shot at second place,” added Kerbacher. “But it looks like that is out of our reach right now. We have two very difficult games ahead.

“If we can continue to get timely hits and solid pitching, we will be in good shape.”