POULSBO — As the season winds down, the pressure is on for the varsity girls’ soccer team to get the necessary wins to qualify for the Narrows League Tournament. But a 3-1 win in Port Angeles Oct. 21 lifted a little weight off their shoulders.

“We played really well offensively, and the team spread out the other team’s defense well,” said Head Coach Teri Ishihara. “That gave them a better chance to win.”

Rosie Zadra scored the lone goal of the first half for the Vikes, in the 11th minute, on an assist from Megan Hyte.

In the second half, Hyte put NK up 2-0 on a pass from Amber Grable in the 53rd minute. After Port Angeles’ lone goal, Sarah Stephenson scored the final goal in the 79th minute, assisted by Grable to give her two on the day.

Ishihara also credited the defense with a great game — and a game consistent with their performance on the season.

“The strength in our team lies in our defense,” Ishihara said. “That’s where our offense starts.”

Led by team captain Lisa Gilbert, the Vikes’ defense has held opposing teams to fewer scoring opportunities.

Ishihara said she is also impressed with Jessica Jenson, who has been helpful in creating openings away from the ball.

“(Jenson) creates space for the team,” she said. “It’s how she moves off the ball, in her mobility.”

With two games remaining in the regular season, the team will play Central Kitsap and Gig Harbor, both at home. If they can win one of two games, they’ll advance into next weekend’s league tournament.

Ishihara said she is confident her girls will hold up physically.

“The endurance is not a factor for this team,” she said. “This is probably one of the most fit teams I’ve had.”

But she said it will take rock-solid performances from everyone to get the tournament — and beyond.

“(The players) will have to step up and give it everything they have,” Ishihara said. “We have to defend well and play our game.”