Hornets (9-7) are one win away from state tournament

Published in the October 19, 2017 edition

SENIOR outside hitter Katie Lonsdale (1) passes the ball to the front row against Masco last week as the Hornet bench and senior captains Jenna Forcellese (5) and Abigail D’Orlando (18) look on. (John Friberg Photo)

By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI

HAMILTON — On Monday afternoon, the North Reading High volleyball team lost, 3-0, at Hamilton-Wenham. It was the Hornets second loss in a row as the Generals were able to complete the season sweep.

With that defeat, the Hornets record fell to 9-7 overall and 6-7 in the Cape Ann League.

“They actually looked better the first time they played against us,” said North Reading head coach Mike Milone, about the Generals.

Hamilton-Wenham won game one, 25-17, game two, 25-23, and the final game, 25-13.

Abby Paine had a season-high nine digs for the Hornets.

North Reading now has to go at least 1-3 in its final four games in order to qualify for the Division 2 state tournament.

Drop match to Masco

Last Friday afternoon, the Hornets lost, 3-0, at home to Masconomet. The Chieftains, who completed the season sweep over the Hornets, won the first game 25-23. They won the second and third games, 25-21.

“We played competitively,” said Milone. “We served poorly late in those games.”

Noel Riley had ten kills, and 11 blocks.

“She played a great game,” recalled Milone.

Paine had 19 assists while Jenna Forcellese had 18 digs.

Victorious over Vikings

On Oct. 11, the Hornets beat Triton, 3-0, at home to complete the season sweep over the Vikings.

They won the first game, 25-13, and the second one, 25-16. They closed the match with a 25-14 win in game three.

“We passed the ball better than we have lately in that match,” said Milone.

Katie Lonsdale had 14 service points including five aces.

The Hornets hosted Ipswich on Wednesday night after press time.

North Reading’s Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser game will take place this Friday afternoon at 5:30 p.m. as they host Medford in a non-league match. The Hornets are looking for the season sweep over the Mustangs.