For The Dialog
CLAYMONT – Second-ranked St. Mark’s used a strong first half to defeat No. 3 Archmere, 14-6, in both teams’ opener in girls lacrosse on March 24. The Spartans raced out to a 9-2 halftime advantage and held on for a big season-opening win on the road.
This was a rematch of a state tournament semifinal from last season. In that game, St. Mark’s held a 14-6 lead before the Auks erupted for seven goals, although the Spartans escaped with the win. After taking the 9-2 lead, the Spartans used a patient ball-control offense in the second half to prevent any comebacks this time.
Nursing a 12-5 lead, St. Mark’s kept the ball for five minutes on one possession that took the clock down to four minutes remaining. Sydney Yanick scored for the Auks with less than a minute to go to make it 13-6, but Megan Noonan put the Spartans’ final shot in the net with 10 seconds to go.
Clare Estes led the Spartans with four goals and four assists. Noonan added three goals and two assists, while Kendra Schweizer had a hat trick of her own. St. Mark’s (1-0) is off until April 7, when they host Indian River at 1 p.m.
Archmere (0-1) got two goals each from Yanick and Caroline Donovan. The Auks are on the road to face Delaware Military Academy on Tuesday at 3:45 p.m. at Kirkwood Soccer Club.
