Rivalry Monday, Melrose Hosts AC at 615

Melrose and Arlington Catholic have squared off about twenty times in the past seventeen years, with each side having its moments. 

Both teams had numerous outstanding teams and have been to the State finals. Melrose's Maria Scocca played for several exceptional AC teams over a decade ago. 

Melrose carried high postseason hopes into the AC gym in 2002 only to have the Cougars dispatch them with relative ease, 3-0. The following year AC came into the D2 North finals 22-0, with an unblemished record in sets. Melrose upset them 3-0 to capture its first of eight sectional titles. 

Last season it was all AC, as the Cats won in straight sets. AC has coaching fortification with Scott Celli's son Ryan signing on with the Cougars. 

The Cougars have a quality win over (5-1) Cardinal Spellman and lost to Lowell and always strong Bishop Fenwick. 

Melrose will need to bring its 'A' game to keep the Cougars at bay.