The hosts carried the momentum early, with a quick 5-2 lead. Winchester has some height and their blocking disrupted some of the Melrose inside game. But trailing early, Melrose went on a run with Amanda Commito serving, leading at 8-5, and never trailed again.
Sarah McGowan used the change of pace effectively in picking up four kills in the first game, and got three well-struck scores from Annalisa DeBari. One could argue that this was the best game of DeBari's career. Jill MacInnes and Amanda had some remarkable saves in the back row and Allie Nolan was consistent.
From 10-9, Melrose concluded with a 15-2 run. Rachel Johnson provided some foreshadowing with a pair of kills and Brooke Bell had a lengthy service run.
Melrose seized the advantage early in set two, leading 6-2 and was never tied. The Sachems came within one at 6-5, but Melrose charged ahead with a 14-5 run to put the set away. Melrose's height came to the fore with three kills apiece from Rachel Johnson, Sarah, and Kayla Wyland.
The Lady Raiders started fast again in set three, with leads of 2-0, 6-1, and 12-4. Melrose came a big unglued, appearing a little relaxed at having control. Winchester chipped away back to 15-12 before a service error intervened.
Melrose then went back out to a 21-15 lead, with a big Johnson effort, as Rachel added four kills in the final frame. Sarah McGowan continued to probe for weakness, and got four kills for her trouble.
Winchester crept back to 24-21 before a service error ended their night.
Game analysis: Winchester had some good athletes and promising players, but Melrose simply had more of both. Winchester has momentum going forward but a way to go before they can lay claim to the league elite. Players whom I thought particularly excelled (absolute and relative) included Rachel, Annalisa,
and Kayla, as their hitting and blocking kept Winchester on their heels. Overall, Melrose was solid but unspectacular.
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