Despite an outstanding defensive performance from goalkeeper Grayson Helie, the Portsmouth High School girls’ soccer team fell 4-1 to La Salle Academy on Wednesday evening in a road contest.
Helie was a bright spot for the Patriots, recording an impressive 22 saves to keep Portsmouth competitive throughout the match. Her stellar play in net helped keep the game close through the first half.
Portsmouth’s Lexi Owen, an 11th-grade midfielder/striker and team captain, provided the lone goal for the Patriots. However, La Salle’s offensive pressure proved too much in the second half, as the Rams netted three goals after intermission to pull away.
La Salle’s attack was led by Allie Scott and Mila Falcone, who each tallied two goals in the victory. The Rams improved their regular-season record to 8-1 with the win.
The loss drops Portsmouth to 3-7 on the season. The Patriots, coached by Erin Hulse with assistant Louis Robinson, will look to rebound in their next outing.
Despite the final score, Helie’s 22-save performance demonstrated the defensive resilience Portsmouth has shown throughout the season, keeping the Patriots within striking distance against one of the area’s top teams.
Photo gallery by Justin Walker/WhatsUpNewp
