RallyNorth.net

MANCHESTER, N.H. | Londonderry's girls lacrosse team was up to the challenge yesterday.

Despite two scoring droughts of nearly 15 minutes each, a half-hour thunderstorm delay, and miserable wet and rainy conditions, the Lancers managed to hang on and defeat Pinkerton 9-8 in the Division 1 state semifinals at Manchester Memorial field.

For the first time in program history, Londonderry defeated Pinkerton. The Lancers prevailed 8-6, handing the Astros their first loss of the season.

'The girls really worked for this one," said Londonderry coach Bob Slater. "Defensively our kids were outstanding. And to have five different goal scorers in a game like this says something for this program."

Nicole Curry found the net five times and keeper Kara Beaulieu made six saves as Pinkerton doubled up Salem, 12-6. Heather Carr and Sammi Benson each scored twice for the Astros while Kacie Connal had a goal and two assists. Salem received single goals from six different players | Laura Santos, Aly Higgins, Sara Halbich, Kyleigh Keating, Tatum Dyer and Taylor Dyer.

Despite some opening-day problems, including a 6-3 halftime deficit, Pinkerton came roaring back in the second half yesterday, scoring four goals in 4:04 and grinding out an exciting 10-9 season-opening win over local rival Londonderry.

2007 record: 16-2, lost Division 1 semifinals

Returning starters (9): Jacki Benson, Sr., midfield; Paige Dorval, Sr., defense; Nikki Corso, Sr., defense; Devan Shea, Jr., midfield; Sammie Benson, Sr., midfield; Nicole Curry, Jr., attack;  Sarah Titus, Sr., defense; Meghan Hickey, Sr., defense; Kara Beaulieu, Sr., goalie;