The long-awaited playoff berth is within reach thanks in part to Hilton, whose third goal of the year was the most important tally of the season so far.

“I was able to make a run in the top of the box and (Dikwa) found me,” Hilton said. “It got stuck on my feet a little bit and I had to dig it out. Luckily it went in right in the top corner.”

STLFC has not lost in its last four matches with three wins and a draw. It has won a franchise-record six successive home matches.

Gomez, a Webster Groves High grad and St. Louis Scott Gallagher product, took over following the Hilton goal with a couple of highlight-reel saves while his team nursed a 1-0 lead.

“We knew this was do or die,” Gomez said. “(We’re) able to control our destiny now. We’ll be able to focus and we won’t need help from other teams.”

Gomez, who attended Georgetown University, wears his father’s name, Ignacio, on the back of his jersey to honor his father, who is battling cancer.

STLFC is in a solid position to make its first playoff appearance in the four-year history of the franchise.