15-1 Melrose has eyes beyond Div. 2 North
Published in the May 25, 2018 edition
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—An early glance at the 2018 spring schedule of the Melrose High boy’s lacrosse team revealed some must-see play action against a few division foes late in the season.
That included a highly anticipated contest between Div. 2 North power Marblehead, who have bested Melrose for close to ten years. On Monday, Melrose beat the Magicians for first time ever in an overwhelming 14-6 contest.
The Red Raiders remains a near-flawless 15-1 on the season with their season finale slated for Friday when they resume play against Wakefield (called short in previous play with 6-1 Melrose lead) at 3:30 p.m.
“That was our best win since Winchester,” head coach Matt James said of the Marblehead effort. “There is very little negative coming out of this game, we just swarmed them and prevailed in nearly every ground ball. It was just a very complete win.”
PARTY TIME for the Melrose Red Raider lacrosse team, who knocked off division rival Marblehead on Monday and celebrated after the game with their league champ tees. (courtesy photo)
Leading in scoring for Melrose were Jack Wells (4 goals, 2 assists) and Christian Nyland (2 goals). Melrose enjoyed goals from seven different athletes, something that Melrose coach Matt James was thrilled to pull off against a talented Marblehead team, who was led in scoring by Andy Clough (4 goals).
Those who helped Melrose take a 9-1 lead at the half were Matt Dussault (2 goals) Andy Calvert (2 goals), Brendan Fennell, Darwin Anderson and Chris Cusolito.
Coach James pointed out the critical offensive play of sophomore Christian Nyland. “This was his springboard moment. There is just a major difference for us when he is out there, he’s been incredibly helpful.”
At the net, Matt Rocha held the fort for Melrose and earned close to 10 saves, while Melrose defense limited Marblehead scoring chances. Defensive players Cam Rosie, Will Pzegeo and Lou Izzi had the formidable task of defending college recruited Marblehead players (including one at 6’5) but they shut them down all afternoon. “Our defense dictated the game, and with everyone on the field healthy as a unit, it puts us in a great place,” says James.
Melrose’s victory over Marblehead should be considered a preview of what their Div. 2 North journey may look like, and it positions them as a number one seed going in. There are first times for everything, and this is one of them. Melrose now is ranked in the top ten (and even top 5) of most local lacrosse websites and lacrosse journals, with expectations of an extended playoff run.
Coach James is taking it all in stride. “We’re looking forward to playoffs and will be keeping an eye out for Billerica, who I think will be a team we match well against.”
Keeping Melrose grounded is important, and so is remaining motivated. Earning a milestone win remains a goal for them. “If we beat Wakefield on Friday this will represent our 100th program victory, and I know the boys want to finish our regular season in celebration.”
As they await playoffs, it’s great to see Melrose peaking at the right time.
“We’ve had some great practices,” says James. “Our offense is progressing and our shooting has bee solid. We’re moving really quickly to where we need to be.”
MIAA tournament pairings are expected to be released June 1.
