LONDONDERRY, Portsmouth High School’s field hockey season ended with a 2-0 loss to Londonderry in the Division I preliminary round on Wednesday, October 21. Londonderry took the lead early in the match, with Emma Karielis scoring six minutes and 31 seconds into the first quarter. The home side then sealed the win in the fourth quarter when Morgan Ayotte scored with 13 minutes and 30 seconds remaining.
Portsmouth’s sophomore goalkeeper Charlotte Daboul made 10 saves during the game, but the team was unable to find the net. The loss brought Portsmouth’s season record to 8-8-1.
Portsmouth head coach Allison St. Jean praised her team’s effort despite the defeat. “I am extremely impressed with how hard our team played today,” she said. “They continued the drive until the very end.”
This season marked Portsmouth’s third year competing in Division I. St. Jean noted progress within the squad: “I am very proud of the effort, determination and growth I continue to see in the Portsmouth field hockey players. This is our third season playing in Division I, and we continue to improve with each season. This is truly a season that each and every one of our players should be proud of.”
The match had a quiet start until Karielis broke the deadlock for Londonderry, setting the tone early. Portsmouth struggled to respond offensively and could not capitalize on Daboul’s strong performance in goal. Ayotte’s goal later in the game ensured Londonderry advanced, ending Portsmouth’s hopes of moving further in the competition.
Elsewhere on Wednesday, Portsmouth Christian Academy’s girls soccer team recorded a 6-1 victory over Epping in a Division IV game. Jaela Stockbower scored three goals, while Tilly Arico contributed two goals and one assist. Brie Mullins and Svea Howe also added to PCA’s tally, with Howe providing two assists. PCA improved their record to 14-1.
In boys soccer, Newmarket maintained their unbeaten streak with a 2-0 win over Franklin in Division IV. Sawyer Rabb and Aiden Ekanem scored for Newmarket, which now stands at 14-0-2.
Portsmouth’s field hockey exit leaves their season at a balanced 8 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, reflecting a team that has grown steadily over three seasons at the Division I level.
According to Yahoo Sports.