When two-time defending state champion Salem traveled to upstart Goffstown – in the midst of its best season ever – both coaches agreed the contest provided a fine late-season litmus test.

At the end of three tightly contested Division I girls volleyball games, Salem was still on top, but Goffstown had closed the gap.

By defeating the hosts, 25- 22, 25-18 and 25-18, the Lady Blue Devils improved their record to 12-2, and the Lady Grizzlies dropped to 10-4.

“They’ve improved a lot. Matt (Leonard) has done a great job with them … I think they’ve got all the pieces to be very successful, and they’re young,” said Salem coach Dan Young of a Goffstown squad that’s already doubled its previous program-best win total. “They’re a tough team that has a chance to win some playoff games, and I don’t think they would be upsets. I mean, what are they, 10-4? What more could you ask for?”

In each of the three games, the Lady Grizzlies were tied, 15-15, before Salem’s experience helped the visitors pull away.

It’s that prowess in tight games, said Leonard, that his team must grasp before Goffstown finds itself among the Division I elite.

“(Salem) walked over us in years past. They’re obviously a great team, they’re two-time defending state champs, they play tough defense, and (Young) always brings up great hitters. It’s like a factory over there,” said Leonard. “Tonight we played one of our best matches of the year, and the good news is we still have room left for improvement. But right now, I’m not sure we’re there yet.

“We still haven’t done anything in the playoffs,” he continued. “We’ve made the playoffs the last three seasons, so this will be our fourth in a row, but we still need to get that first playoff win before we’re competitive for anything.”

Goffstown closes the regular season at Mountain View Middle School, its impromptu home, against Exeter on Friday, Oct. 24.

The Lady Grizzlies plan to honor their five seniors – Katie Moreau, Sarah Bartlett, Lexe Turcotte and sisters Livvy and Chelly Smith – before the contest.

“I hope the kids come out to support us,” said Leonard. “Last year, they came out and saw competitive volleyball. This year, they’re coming out and seeing winning volleyball.”