BY RYAN O’CONNOR

It was the first win in the program’s first year, and it came in dramatic fashion.

The Pembroke Academy boys lacrosse team, entrenched in a low-scoring battle with Pelham on Thursday, April 17, entered the fourth quarter up, 2-1. However, two quick Pelham goals put the Spartans behind and, it seemed, on their way to a third straight loss to open the season.

But with 36 seconds left in regulation, midfielder Patrick McCormack picked up an unforced Pelham turnover, streaked down the field, dished the ball to Doug Merrill, who passed to Brian Roche, who found the back of the net.

Then, 19 seconds later, the Spartans did it again – this time on a McCormack tally with seven seconds left in the game to secure a 4-3 victory.

“I couldn’t be more happy with these guys showing that kind of heart and dedication,” said head coach Stephen Wallin. “I just put them on the field, and they do the rest.”

Nathan Huntley and defenseman Jordan MacRae scored Pembroke’s first two goals, giving

the locals a 2-0 edge.

Senior goalie Nate Komm played a tremendous game in net, said Walllin, who added MacRae earned the game ball for his relentless efforts and Merrill turned in a strong performance at midfield.

Prior to the victory, PA lost, 15-0, to both Portsmouth and Hollis-Brookline – two of the top teams in Division III. Getting the win against Pelham, said Wallin, was a huge boost to morale. “I think they can play with the best of the best,” he said. “I have high expectations for them. I definitely expect them to finish around .500 and maybe make the playoffs.”

Others contributing this season include seniors Ryan Foster, Andrew LaValley, Matt Lavoie, Richard Blye, Tobey Manning and Adam Gray; juniors Jerry Jarnigan, Christopher Allen and Vincent Verecchia-LaChance; and sophomores Matthew Sweeney, Dalton Sirrine, Samuel Harty and Jamison Syphers.