The Salem High lacrosse teams returned from break Saturday to split a doubleheader at Monticello. The girls lost, 12-7, but the Spartan boys took a 20-6 win.

Evan McMillan had seven goals and two assists in the boys’ victory. Zach Mason had four goals and two assists while Peyton Woodward and Spencer Moran played well in the goal. Salem’s Trent Cheyney did a good job on faceoffs.

“We played a complete game on offense, possessing the ball with smart shot selection,” said coach Daniel Dyer. “Monticello had some strong midfielders that our defense was able to slow down. We have some big tests coming up in the next couple weeks. We have to build off of that win and continue to improve each day.”

The boys improved to 7-2 with the win while the girls fell to 5-3 with the loss. The Salem girls trailed just 5-3 at the half and had some chances early in the second half but they weren’t able to draw even before the Mustangs pulled away.

“Monticello is a skilled team, but we should have played them closer,” said Salem coach Maggi Pace. “Mentally, we were not where we needed to be to play at our best. Playing a spring break game is tough, but I think we have some maturing to do as offensive and defensive units on the field.  Monticello did a really great job of transitioning and we did not hang with them.”

Arie Newman and Madi Caldwell had two goals each for the Spartans and Newman also had an assist. Lilly Blair, Libby Bowman and Alla Daniel had one goal each and Abbey Greer led the team in ground balls.

The Spartans were scheduled to host Franklin County in a doubleheader on Wednesday of this week, but results were too late for publication. The Franklin County girls came in at 8-0 and the boys also have a good team.

On Friday the girls return the trip to Rocky Mount, and next Thursday, May 4, both teams play at E.C. Glass.