CHAPEL HILL -- When Durham Academy is playing superlative lacrosse there are obvious indications: the players pass the ball well around the outside and they disorient opposing defenses with cutting and dodging.

If those things are done reasonably well, then players can expect some modicum level of success.

If completed with the same consistency as they did on Tuesday, then the Cavaliers can expect results similar to their 11-1 victory over Chapel Hill.

Chapel Hill (4-3), with one of the oldest public school lacrosse programs in the state, last season won the North Carolina High School Lacrosse Association open state title. Durham Academy (4-2) won the state independent school league championship.

Lacrosse is not sanctioned by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association as a varsity sport, but several area schools recognize their teams as varsity programs. Coaches and players say the sport is growing in popularity, which makes games featuring the top programs exciting.

"It's a fun rivalry," Durham Academy coach Joey Seivold said. "It's a fun game. Our kids were definitely inspired to play their best on a day like this."

Durham Academy senior John Short looked particularly inspired from his attacker position. With buoyancy in his legs, he outran double teams and on four occasions squeezed inside Chapel Hill's crease for goals.

Short credited his teammates who helped draw double-teams. He said, "Everyone came pumped up. The atmosphere was great."

Despite the loss, Chapel Hill coach Glenn Estacio was pleased with first-time goalie David Hartzell, a junior who in his second game compiled 15 saves.

"I'm picking up the fundamentals quickly," said Hartzell, a former midfielder. "I just need experience and more practice."