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Pinkerton reaches finals again

Thursday, October, 29 By Kyle Gaudette

EXETER — Pinkerton field hockey is going back to the state finals for the third time in four seasons after beating archrival Londonderry 2-0 in Thursday's Division 1 semifinal.
Madison Lolicata open the scoring midway through the second half with a shot from the point, and later on teammate Abigail Amato scored to put the game away.
"We made some adjustments, and she [Madison] did a fantastic job getting the stop and finishing on the corner," said Pinkerton head coach Jen Resmini.
It was a back and forth game during the first half, but Pinkerton put itself in position to score thanks to seven first half penalty corners. Londonderry had a one-on-one chance late in the period, but Pinkerton goalie Abbey Doherty came way out of the box to make a diving save.
The first 45 minutes were frustrating for the Astros, who had numerous chances to score, but were constantly denied by swarming Londonderry defenders. Hannah McGrath and Maeve MacPhail gave the Astros fits on defense, while goalie Rachel Simkevich had another fantastic game in the box.
The Astros stuck with it, however, and finally got one past Simkevich.
"Sometimes we change stuff up and adjust to the team, but for the most part we try to stick with what we've been doing because it works," said Resmini.
Samantha Day and Carly Young each were all over the field for the Astros, recording assists on the two goals while doing all the little things Pinkerton needed to get back to the title game.
The Astros will play top-seeded Winnacunnet in the state title game on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at Bedford High School.
"I think a lot of them are focused, a couple have been there in the past," said Resmini. "I think it's a matter of staying mentally focused, and knowing that they can come out and play their game."