MERRY HILL – It was a display of defenses here Wednesday afternoon as Lawrence Academy and Hertford County High School battled for 70 minutes only to end match play in a 0-0 tie.

While both offenses got a few opportunities at opponent’s goal, neither was able to capitalize.

Instead it was the defenses that made their mark keeping most of the first half play near midfield.

Lawrence Academy’s defense was led by goalkeeper Jane Perry.

Perry and defensive backs Elizabeth Dixon, Katina Summerford and Kate Gillam effectively limited the Bears’ shots on goal instead clearing the ball out to their offense.

Leading the way on the Hertford County defense was junior goalie Courtney Price.

Price had a stellar performance in goal collecting over ten saves on the day and shutting out an aggressive Lawrence offense.

The Bears defensive assist went to backs Lauren baker, Brittany Beatty and Rebecca Barket.

It was the second time this year these two squads have met and the second time they have ended in a tie.

The first match played at Lawrence Academy ended with both squads knotted at one-apiece.

Hertford County head coach Carol Swain was impressed with the play of both squads.

&uot;I thought both teams did an excellent job both offensively and defensively&uot; said Swain.

&uot;Everyone played their heart out and it made for an excellent game.&uot;

Swain said she was particularly proud of the play by her young bench.

&uot;Our bench came up huge for us today,&uot; said the Bears skipper.

&uot;They played all over the field and did a tremendous job.&uot;

Hertford County travels to Pasquotank Monday for a 7pm kickoff.

Lawrence Academy resumes play Monday when they travel to John A. Holmes for a 7 p.m. contest at Edenton.