Melrose Advances, 3-0

Middlesex League runnerup Melrose began its Division 2 North title defense with a 3-0 victory over the Greater Lowell Griffyns. Melrose had the size and experience advantage, and slugged out Game 1 with an imprecise victory.

In Game 2, the offense began to come alive, and Rachel Towle delivered crisp overheads into the back line getting the Lady Raiders a big lead, en route to a 25-14 victory.

Finally in Game 3, the team put it all together, totally dominating, sparked by a scintillating performance by Nicole Glavin, who pulled out an assortment of smashes, tips, and well-placed shots. More than anything else, she increased the energy level and made good decisions on when to hit and when to lay back. Mark Pearson described her as the 'Player of the Game' in his MMTV comments.

Also making headlines were Laura Irwin, with her first varsity kills. Irwin brings power, athleticism, and offensive fearlessness that recall the formative efforts of Karen Sen from the outside. At one point in the game, Melrose had three freshmen on the court and dominating, with Hannah Brickley, Irwin, and setter Colleen Hanscom.

Melrose will play next in the Division II North Semis, Thursday night. If top-seeded Greater Lawrence wins, the game will be in Lawrence, and if Central Catholic wins, then Melrose will host the match in Stoneham.

Game Analysis. Melrose started sluggishly and came on as the evening proceeded. Melrose got more offense from a variety of sources, including more hitting power from Hannah Brickley in the middle, complementing Leslie Hirschfeld's strong play. The back row quartet of libero Laura Dillon, Kelsey Quinn, Sam Hamel, and Gina Ciccone all sparkled, and Kelsey had a number of services aces as well.

Faces in the Crowd. Melrose AD Pat Ruggiero hosted the evening at Stoneham, with Stoneham AD Mike Lahiff on hand as well. Basketball Captains Shey Peddy and Lynley DeAmato had their customary position amidst the Melrose crowd, and last year's setter, Amanda Hallett, a libero at Framingham State watched as well.