It took just three years for the Goffstown boys lacrosse program to secure the program’s first-ever playoff bid, and the Grizzlies showed they weren’t satisfied with merely reaching the postseason.

No. 7 Goffstown recorded three quick goals to open the fourth quarter of its Division II first-round match up with No. 2 St. Thomas Aquinas, but the Grizzlies fell short, 7-5, on June 3.

“We had the ball on their side of the field for most the fourth quarter, and we hit the post a couple of times,” said Goffstown head coach Dave Moloney. “It was a game we could have won – not to take anything away from St. Thomas Aquinas because it was a well-fought game.”

Goffstown trailed at the half, 4-2, and the Saints increased their lead to 7-2 by the end of the third quarter. Still, the Grizzlies showed a determination and resiliency that earned them the program’s first postseason trip.

“I told them to come out and play aggressive,” said Moloney. “Play your game and do what you can do. Don’t worry about the score. Lacrosse is a game of momentum.”

Brendan Shearin’s goal less than five minutes into the fourth quarter began a threeminute span during which Goffstown scored three times.

Chris Ugno followed suit with a pair of goals to account for the final score.

“It’s tough for the seniors. They want to go as far as they can,” said Moloney. “When you lay your heart on the field in the last game, it’s emotional. They knew that they had come very close in that game, and there were a few opportunities that were missed. But they played hard, and they did the best that they could.”

Several members of the Goffstown squad received postseason honors. Shearin and Drew Simoneau were selected first-team all-state.

Bryan Bourque, Connor Nolan and Matt Bartlett were selected to the second team. Moloney expects the Grizzlies to be more prepared next season.

“We need to play more offseason ball, get into camps and things like that,” he said. “Hopefully we can get back into the playoffs, and we’ll see how far we can go. We’re going to try to add to the success we had this year.”