Virginia Independent Schools, Division II state semifinal

Portsmouth Christian (8-2) at Nansemond-Suffolk (7-3) – Monday 6 p.m.

Last meeting, Oct. 9 – Nansemond-Suffolk 14, Portsmouth Christian 7

Just over a month ago, NSA passed the Patriots in the state ratings thanks to its win in Portsmouth and even with a loss vs. Trinity Episcopal two weeks ago, that win gave the Saints the home playoff game, that has now been pushed to Monday.

Will Crenshaw rushed for 145 yards on 20 carries and Ryan May added 12 carries for 56 yards and a touchdown run. Quarterback Domonique Lennon scored on 3-yard run with 5:51 to go in the third quarter to put NSA up 14-7.

NSA’s defense was strong the whole way and had to turn away a two-minute drill by the Patriots. PC’s last chance to tie or take the lead started on the Patriot 25 with 2:00 left. The Patriots moved as far as the NSA 32 before Bobby Lamm’s interception sealed the outcome with 0:32 left. PC was 10-for-21 passing for 119 yards and rushed for 46 yards for the game.

Maybe there’s been enough time since the nor’easter for NSA’s football field to recover some, but if the field’s still a muddy mess, it would presumably favor NSA’s running game and size advantage on both sides of the line.

The other semifinal pits No. 1 Blue Ridge against No. 4-seed, but defending state champion, Atlantic Shores. The game in St. George was slated for Saturday afternoon, but it too has been moved to Monday.