Melrose put itself in position for the Middlesex Freedom Division title with a 18-25, 25-22, 25-21, 25-12 Senior Night victory over visiting Burlington. The Lady Raiders handed Burlington its third ML loss, avenging a loss in Burlington. Melrose can clinch the title with a win Saturday against Wilmington. Melrose is 13-2 in the ML and Burlington 12-3.
Before the game the team, family, and fans celebrated the seven seniors on the team after recognizing Burlington's seven seniors and two managers.
This group has earned a previous State Championship berth (2017). Seniors recognized included Marie Maher, Claire Albuja, Grace Davis, Mary Kate Mahoney, Erin Torpey, Nicole Abbott, and Emma Randolph.
The results validated the most recent Maxpreps.com Massachusetts rankings.
Burlington dominated the first set as Kelly Joyce had her way offensively.
But after trailing 6-1 in the second, Melrose tightened up the back row, with Nicole Abbott having one of the finest libero games since Jill MacInnes at Westborough in 2012. She got plenty of help from Mary Kate Mahoney, Erin Torpey, and Emma Randolph.
The defensive rally spurred on the offense, which (unofficially) likely had double digit kills from Emma, Emily Hudson, Erin, and freshman Chloe Gentile. With the set at 24-22, Gentile iced the Red Devils with a beautiful short set from Eva Haralabatos. Grace Davis' overall play in relief also was a difference maker and Autumn Whelan was steady in a designated server role. Elena Soukos had several strong attacks from the strong side.
The third set was back and forth, tied at 10 before Melrose slowly pulled away. Emma heated up and the middle attack from Emily and Chloe loosened up the perimeter blocks.
Melrose completely dominated the final set with nothing short of brilliant defense from Nicole and teammates and big hits from the diversified offense.
Lady Raider Notes: Melrose got contributions from all phases of the game...steady serving, strong blocking especially from Chloe and Emily, and spectacular back row defense.
Former players were sprinkled throughout the crowd including Allie Nolan and Alyssa Abbott from the 2012 state title team, and Sam Dewey. An excellent crowd of Melrose students supported their classmates.
At the Senior Night gathering post-game, Coach Celli congratulated the team, especially the seniors on the victory. He reminded players that there is a lot of volleyball left to be played. He announced that Abby Hudson received permanent promotion to the Varsity, news well-received by Abby and from all three teams. She joins big sister Emily in the latest Melrose 'sister act.' Erin Torpey and Nicole Abbott are younger sisters of former players.
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