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One goal short.

The Pentucket boys soccer team missed the state tournament by that margin yesterday, playing Triton to a 0-0 tie. The Sachems needed to win to clinch a postseason berth. Pushed to the brink of elimination with five games to play, the Sachems beat Ipswich, Rockport, Amesbury and Newburyport to set up yesterday's season finale.

The Sachems (6-7-4) extended their winning streak to four games | all of which were absolutely necessary to keep the squad from falling out of contention for a state tournament berth. Brian Cormier and Evan Miller scored Pentucket's goals. Jamie Costello had an assist. Sachems coach Christian Langlois credited Jack Kern for his defensive play.

Giuseppe Guerriero scored twice as Manchester Essex drew Pentucket 2-2. Jake Buzzell and Brian Clevesy struck for Pentucket. Matt Graves made eight saves for Manchester Essex (3-2-3), and Joe Casey turned aside six shots for the Sachems (1-4-4).

Coach: Christian Langlois (8th season) 54-44-17

Last year's record: 8-8-4

Key players: Harry Shipps, sr.; Matt Murphey, sr.; Billy Beaton, sr.; Jake Buzzell, jr.; Brian Clevesy, jr.; Brian Cormier, jr.; Jamie Costello, jr.; Joe Casey, jr. Strengths: Midfield and forward combinations, as well as returning goal keeper. Harry Shipps rock on defense

Triton built a 2-0 lead and held on to defeat rival Pentucket 2-1. The host Vikings (1-0-2) got goals from Andrew Goodwin and Pat Martin with assists from Evan Schwarz, Ed Hargreaves, Caleb Noble and Martin. Triton goalies Ben Cross (4 saves) and Ben Norton (3 saves) split time in the win.

NEWBURYPORT | If ever there was a question regarding the intensity of the Newburyport-Pentucket soccer rivalry, it was answered in the closing minutes of last night's sixth annual ALS Cup.

Few in attendance had to check the scoreboard to confirm Pentucket's 2-0 victory in the boys' nightcap. As the referees sounded the final whistle, the Pentucket bench emptied thanks to a herd of sprinting players destined for the celebratory pile of athletes at midfield.