For the sixth consecutive year, the Melrose Lady Raiders advance to the Division 2 North championship, as they travel to Greater Lawrence and top the previously undefeated Reggies 3-0. Melrose overcame adversity, the loss of All-Star Laura Irwin with a fractured ankle, using a variety of combinations to survive and advance.
Melrose got out to a quick lead 7-0 behind a service run by Siena Mamayek, abetted by two quick kills by All-State middle Hannah Brickley. The Reggies closed to within 11-4, only to have Melrose gradually pull away to a 25-13 win. Among the highlights were eight kills by Hannah and a pair apiece from Siena Mamayek and freshman Jill Slabacheski.
Set two saw another early Melrose lead 6-0, and overall dominance in a 25-12 win. Hannah added another five kills and Siena four, in one of her best games of the season.
Melrose gained strength and confidence as the evening wore on, leading 7-0 and 15-4 in the third set. Sophomore Bridget Corso had a highlight dig early in the set, as she made her presence felt on both offense and defense, despite being a first year player to the sport. The athleticism of the young Lady Raiders was on display with Melrose's pair of freshmen and sophomores as well as the more experienced juniors and the lone senior, Kelly O'Neill. Hannah had another four kills in the frame and Siena tallied another trio.
Coach Scott Celli felt that the game was one of the strongest of the season for Melrose, especially considering the patchwork lineups necessitated by Laura's injury.
Melrose will play Central Catholic Saturday in the D2 North finals at Andover at 4:00 P.M. Last year Central beat Melrose to capture the sectional title.
Lady Raider fans wish Laura a speedy recovery from her injury.
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