READING, Pa. - Alvernia stopped #14 Lebanon Valley's momentum in a 4-0 setback on Saturday.

The Crusaders, playing for their season needing a win to stay in the playoff race, came out firing and used a big defensive effort to stymie the Dutchmen (14-2, 5-1 CC). 

Despite the loss, LVC can still clinch the Commonwealth Conference's #1 seed with a win Tuesday night in its regular-season finale against Arcadia. The Dutchmen (14-2, 5-1 CC) are tied for first in the Commonwealth Conference with the Knights (12-5, 5-1 CC), and the winner will take home field advantage throughout the playoffs. 

Margaret Wentzel scored a hat trick for the Crusaders (10-7, 4-2 CC), who led 14-6 on shots and never let LVC get into an offensive rhythm despite 13 Dutchmen penalty corners. Wentzel scored twice in the first half, then added a late tally after Natalie Messaros scored in the 36th minute.

Kendra Moll had two saves; Sarah DiMaggio made three stops in 11 minutes of relief. Erin Wunsch picked up the win with four saves. Lauren Brumbach led LVC with two shots.

The Dutchmen close the regular season Tuesday, hosting Arcadia for Senior Night at 7 p.m.