Swindon Wildcats beat Peterborough Phantoms 2-1 at the Better Link Centre on Saturday evening to take first-leg advantage in the NIHL play-off semi-finals, coming from behind to score twice and hold off a late Peterborough rally. Lawrence gave the Phantoms the lead in the first period, Villegas levelled at the start of the second, and vande Meerakker scored the winner at 40:33 - 33 seconds into the third period - before Peterborough pulled their goalkeeper and called their timeout at 58:42 without finding an equaliser.

vande Meerakker continues his outstanding play-off form, having now scored in the quarter-final against Romford, the second leg against Romford, and now the semi-final opener - his fourth goal in four play-off matches. He also assisted Villegas's equaliser, making him the creative and scoring hub of Swindon's semi-final campaign.

Peterborough lead at the break - Villegas levels at the start of the second

Lawrence gave Peterborough the lead at 15:33 from Sari's assist. The first period ended 1-0 to Peterborough, the visitors ahead on home ice. Villegas scored at 20:37 - just 37 seconds into the second period - from vande Meerakker and Bradley to level at 1-1. Bebris was penalised for slashing at 38:02 without Peterborough converting on the ensuing power play, and the second period ended level.

vande Meerakker wins it 33 seconds into the third

vande Meerakker scored at 40:33 from Nell's assist - 33 seconds after the third period began - to give Swindon a lead they would not relinquish. Peterborough pushed in the final minutes, pulling their goalkeeper and calling their timeout at 58:42 with 78 seconds remaining, but Swindon held firm. Marr in goal was not seriously threatened in the closing stages.

Swindon lead the semi-final 1-0. Peterborough must win in the second leg to avoid elimination.

Result: Swindon Wildcats 2 – 1 Peterborough Phantoms
Swindon Wildcats scorers: Villegas 20:37 (A: vande Meerakker, Bradley) - vande Meerakker 40:33 (A: Nell)
Peterborough Phantoms scorers: Lawrence 15:33 (A: Sari)
Goaltenders: Renny Marr (SWI) | Will Bray (PET)