Melrose Rolls Over Burlington

Melrose (12-1) traveled to Burlington and treated their hosts harshly 25-9, 25-5, and 25-17.

Burlington took a quick 4-2 lead before a Melrose 17-2 run restored order. Hannah Brickley had five service aces in the game. Colleen Hanscom distributed the sets all around, with three kills for Athena Ziavras, a pair for Siena Mamayek, two for herself and one apiece for Laura Irwin, Jill Slabacheski, and Hannah. Alyssa DiRaffaele started in the back row defensive slot along side libero Jess Farr.

Game 2 was a rout with the Lady Raiders leading 10-0 and 18-1. Laura took charge with eight kills, ably assisted by Hannah with three of Melrose's fourteen.

Wholesale changes occurred in game three including both freshmen, Amanda Commito at defensive specialist and Brooke Bell at setter. Melrose and Burlington jockeyed for position early, knotted at 3, 8, 10, and 12 before Melrose took control, behind a series of aces from Alyssa. Melrose would score 13 of the next 18 points to ice the contest. The game also marked the first varsity appearance for Brittany Adelman, who would also notch her first kill. Siena led the 'hit' parade with a trio of kills.

Coming attractions. Three days to volleyball Armageddon. Local fans look forward to a visit from the mighty Barnstable Red Raiders Friday. This contest puts the perennial state champ on display, and gives Melrose a chance to step up against superior competition hefore the playoffs. Kaylee Deluga and Nicole Horvath lead the Red Raiders in kills, Devon Bentivegna in service aces, and Melanie Appleman is their 'dig' leader. The top teams always have superior defense, superior passing, and depth.