saving the best for last as playoffs near

Published February 21, 2020

By JENNIFER GENTILE

MELROSE SENIORS with their parents (from left) Joe Lucien, Cam Marks, Peter Santos, Joe Shields, Ryan Morris, Andy Calvert and Cam Gorman. (Steve Karampalas photo)

STONEHAM—The Melrose Red Raider hockey team had plenty to prove on Senior Night on Saturday, Feb. 15 at Stoneham Arena when they hosted league-leader Burlington on their second of two meetings, and it proved a statement game for Melrose as they skated away with a 4-1 victory that earned them their tenth win of the season and left them a formidable challenger in the Div. 1 North playoff field.

With the win, Melrose clinched its 7th of its last 8 games after suffering their last loss on Jan. 18. When it boils down to it: Melrose is certainly peaking at the right time. 

Before they hit the ice on Saturday, Melrose honored their graduating seniors: Cam Gorman, Joe Shields, Joe Lucien, Cam Marks, Peter Santos, Ryan Morris and Andy Calvert. This group has been a integral part of Melrose’s winning streak, including their convincing victory over the Red Devils (a Super 8 contender) in a game the Melrose never took a deficit in. 

Melrose’s Quinn McCarthy scored two goals for the Red Raiders, including the first of the game, 20 seconds into the second period to give Melrose a 1-0 lead. Melrose scored on a power play goal shortly after to make it 2-0, then another to keep the shutout going 3-0. 

Burlington’s Ryan O’Halloran was the only Red Devil to find the net for Burlington and his goal made it a 3-1, while Melrose’s McCarthy earned his second goal that lifted Melrose 4-1. Red Raider defense (including goalie Joe Shields) held the fort in a scoreless last period to seal the victory. 

While some teams like Arlington are a lock on Super 8 consideration, and teams like Reading a thoughtful candidate, Melrose has solidly cemented themselves as a to-beat team in the Div. 1 North field. Look for Melrose to make a healthy playoff run, and hopefully open up a game at home. But time will tell. Playoff seedings are due to be released this weekend. 

Players are encouraged to visit www.miaa.net and visit our social media pages for up to date tournament info.

Freedom League Standings

                        League  All

Burlington      8-3-3   14-4-3 

Melrose         7-5-2   10-5-3 

Wakefield      6-6-2   10-6-3 

Wilmington    5-6-3    9-7-3 

Stoneham      1-11-2   6-11-2