Portsmouth Abbey

4/20/2009 - Berwick Academy 6 v. Portsmouth Abbey 4

Big Win for the Bulldogs
This Saturday the Bulldogs of Berwick Academy took on EIL powerhouse Portsmouth Abbey. Berwick was coming off a two game winning streak and riding momentum coming into Saturday’s game. However, Berwick knew that Portsmouth Abbey would be a formidable opponent who had only one loss, to Phillips Exeter, this season.

The first half was defined by ball possession for both teams, from the onset it was clear that the game was going to be a physical, defensive in nature, and hard fought. Portsmouth Abbey jumped out to an early lead; however, Berwick responded by adding a tying tally. During the first half both teams traded goals, and neither squad could pull away.

In the second half, Berwick’s senior attack stepped up their game, and the Bulldogs begin to take the lead. Ethan Fishbaugh netted three buckets and displayed pose and a sense of purpose on the offensive side of the ball; fellow senior attackers, Peter Jenkinson and Tom Hay, ensured Berwick kept possession of the ball and were masters of distribution all while fending off the punishing and skillful checks of a tenacious and talented Portsmouth Abbey defensive group.
The mid-field played extremely well. John Reinhart and Jordan Sanford played with passion and purpose and were able to give the team a physical boost in the middle of the field. Jordan was a bulldog on groundballs and face-offs.

Berwick solidified the win by playing a tough “blue collar” defense game. Chris Atwood and Aaron Harris both displayed their defensive prowess and daft take away ability. Their contributions backed by a stellar effort in the cage by Patrick Nichols (who had a season high 13 saves).

Saturday was a great day for lacrosse at Berwick Academy and highlighted the progress the boys are making. The Bulldogs are in action again this Wednesday as they travel to Andover, New Hampshire to take on Proctor Academy. The team would like to thank their parents and fans for the ongoing support.