New Hampshire knocks off Maine 41-27

Dec 7, 2013, 06:52 pm

ORONO, Maine -- Sean Goldrich threw for 291 yards and three touchdowns, leading New Hampshire to a 41-27 victory over Maine in the second round of the FBC playoffs Saturday.

New Hampshire (9-4) defeated Maine (10-3) two weeks ago 24-3 in the Colonial Athletic Association regular season finale. The Wildcats will play the Sam Houston -- Southeastern Louisiana winner in the next round.

New Hampshire scored first on Mike McArthur's 43-yard field goal in the first quarter. Damarr Autman returned the ensuing kickoff 88 yards for a touchdown and a 7-3 Maine advantage. Three plays later New Hampshire retook the lead 10-7 when Goldrich threw to Justin Mello for a 57-yard scoring strike

A Goldrich to Mello 3-yard pass gave the Wildcats a 27-17 advantage with 11:30 remaining in the third. They then pulled away on two Chris Setain rushing touchdowns in the final quarter.

Marcus Wasilewski led Maine with 229 yards passing.