RallyNorth.net

NASHUA — There were years the state title felt tantalizingly close, but just out of reach.

Other years, the title trophy felt like it was a million miles away.

But impossible? Timberlane coach John Dube never allowed those words of hopelessness to seep in during the decade-long wait.

NASHUA - As expected, Timberlane easily disposed of Hollis-Brookline (25-18, 25-14, 25-20) to earn a third shot at 10-time defending state champion Salem.

Cam Todd had 12 kills and Phil Murphy 11 in the state semifinal romp.

Cam Todd (12), Cam Donnelly (9) and Mike Murphy (8) combined for 29 kills and Timberlane swept Mascenic, 3-0, in quarterfinal action.

Timberlane's Phil Balanoff recorded 50 assists and 16 service points, but unbeaten Salem was able to hold on for a tight  25-23, 25-19, 17-25, 18-25, 16-14. Reid Grubbs had 38 assists for the Blue Devils.

Ben Beane had 15 digs and Phil Balanoff notched 25 assists as Timberlane beat John Stark 3-0.

Sophomore Kevin Healey led the team in kills with seven as Timberlane — with several regulars resting much of the way — coasted past Dover in volleyball in three games.