Portsmouth High School’s boys lacrosse team clinched its first state championship, beating East Greenwich 15-6 in the Rhode Island Division 2 final at Brown University on Saturday (June 7).

The Patriots jumped to an early four-goal lead, but East Greenwich fought back to tie it up. Portsmouth holds a slim 5-4 advantage at halftime.

In the third quarter, Portsmouth widened the gap to 9-4. With 11 minutes left in the fourth, a 45-minute lightning delay interrupts play. Once back on the field, East Greenwich scored twice in quick succession, but Portsmouth answered with six goals of their own. Officials called the game with a minute remaining due to nearby lightning.

Junior captain Jack Colna stood tall in goal for Portsmouth, making 19 saves. Senior Rob Mairs reached a career milestone, notching his 100th point with two goals and four assists.

Shane Temple contributed one goal and four assists, while Teddy Gersen added four goals and an assist. Chase Pascoe rounded out the scoring for Portsmouth with five goals.

For East Greenwich, Ben Butterfield led with two goals and an assist. Brady Parks, Cooper Lake, Micha Dawson, and Oliver Jackson each chipped in with a goal.

All photos by Justin Walker for What’sUpNewp

Justin Walker is a Newport County native who specializes in sports, portraits, weddings and events as a freelance photographer around New England. Justin has over a decade of experience starting in college covering high profile events, collegiate and professional sports in Washington, D.C. His photojournalism and freelance work can be seen in various local and national publications. Check out his work at justinlwalkerphotography.com!