Published January 24, 2020
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—The Melrose Red Raider basketball team is enjoying a record of 7-3 after two critical Middlesex Freedom wins this week. They currently sit second in the Freedom league behind undefeated Burlington.
CHARLIE BORSTEL helped lead Melrose to a big 70-37 victory over Wilmington on Friday, Jan. 17. (Jeff Maté photo)
On Friday, they hosted the Wilmington Wildcats (1-8) and ran away with a 70-37 victory. Melrose senior captain Charlie Borstel and senior Brandon McSorley led in scoring with 11 points each, while senior captain Chris Cusolito finally returned to action after an injury sustained during Melrose’s march to Super Bowl victory and showed no signs of rust with 8 points.
Melrose took an early lead of 14-6 as Ryan Maher started things off with a three and Brandon McSorley and Luka Vlajkovic added baskets of their own. Cusolito found an open Charlie Borstel for a 3 and then nabbed his own trey to give Melrose a big lead of 14-9 at the half. Pete Wiesen (4 points) and Borstel continued scoring in the second half, though Melrose’s defense began to slip, allowing the Wildcats to come into the game, 19-13, but Melrose’s collective offense ruled, with Red Raiders AJ Norton Jefferson and Chris Paul keeping Melrose ahead. Brandon McSorley had two, spot-on three-pointers to close out the half with a 38-21 Melrose lead.
The Red Raiders’ second half was dominated by Melrose junior guard Andrew Beauchesne who had 5 points, several steals and was blazing on defense. Also getting court time was freshman Cam Lippy who had 3 points, and Max Kirby, who nailed a three at the close of the game.
On Tuesday, Melrose followed up that gem with a convincing 66-41 win over Stoneham. They will host a competitive Watertown team this Friday evening at 7:00 p.m.
Middlesex Freedom League Standings
League Overall
Burlington 9-0 12-1
Melrose 5-3 7-3
Watertown 5-3 6-4
Wakefield 4-4 6-5
Wilmington 1-8 1-9
Stoneham 0-9 1-10
