WATERBORO — Libby Pomerleau had two goals and an assist Tuesday to lead Thornton Academy to a 4-1 victory against Massabesic in an SMAA field hockey game.

The Golden Trojans (2-2) dominated most of the game, outshooting the Mustangs 9-3 in the first half and 9-2 in the second

“(Thornton Academy) has a lot of veterans back from last year,” said Massabesic Coach Michele Martin-Moore. “When a team like that ups their intensity against a team like mine that is very, very young, it makes a clear difference.”

Thornton finished 11-4 last season and was using this game against the Mustangs (1-3) as a gauge.

“I told the girls that last year after four games we were 2-2 and a win today gets us there,” said Coach Lori Smith. “So (this was) a big game for us.”

The Trojans, after a slow start, rebounded from an early deficit to score four unanswered goals in the final 45 minutes.

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After Mackenzie Kiddel scored 4-1/2 minutes into the game for Massabesic, burying a one-timer from Maggie Redman into the bottom left corner, Pomerleau took the game over.

“One of the hallmarks of my team this year is they don’t give up,” Smith said.

After 10 minutes, Pomerleau scored twice in 41 seconds for Thornton, which added two second-half goals.

“They adjusted really well,” said Martin-Moore. “They upped their intensity level and I don’t think we matched it.”

Pomerleau, who led the Tojans in scoring last season, said she hoped the victory is a turning point for the team.

“It definitely lifted our spirits. We started to get a little down on ourselves,” she said. “It’s hard losing game after game so this is definitely a good win for us and boosts our confidence.”

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Massabesic freshman starter Emma Rutledge missed the game with a cold.

Already inexperienced, being without one of their starters made things more difficult for the Mustangs, but Martin-Moore wouldn’t use it as an excuse and said she was proud of her team’s effort.

“They don’t give up and they never give up,” she said. “They have the heart that they need and their skill will catch up.”

Martin-Moore also said Thornton was “probably one of the best teams we’ve played.”

Sophomore Emily Kelley made 14 saves for Massabesic.

Allie Romprey and Ashley Houp also scored for Thornton, with Romprey adding an assist.


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