By DAN TOMASELLO
LYNNFIELD — The girls’ basketball team compiled a .500 record last week, bringing the Pioneers’ record this season to 3-1.
The Pioneers defeated Georgetown 49-33 on Dec. 19.
Georgetown jumped out to an early lead and had a one point lead at the end of the first quarter. The Pioneers bounced back and held the Royals to a combined seven points in the second and third quarters.
Senior captain Emma Mancini continued her dominant play against the Royals, finishing with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Senior captain Toni DiCesare added nine points. Junior forward Marie Norwood had 12 rebounds.
“The kids did a nice job,” said Pioneers head coach Bob Melillo. “We got down early but we played better defense in the second and third quarters. The kids were able to build a nice lead and get a good win.”
Loss to Amesbury
The Pioneers fell 52-48 to Amesbury on Dec. 22.
Lynnfield jumped out to an early 15 point lead and had a 12-point lead at halftime. The locals had a nine point lead heading into the fourth quarter but the Indians managed to go on a late rally and pulled out the 52-48 victory.
DiCesare led the Pioneers with 18 points after drilling six three-pointers. Mancini finished with nine points before she fouled out with four minutes remaining in the game. Norwood had a career-high 12 rebounds.
“Our defense just broke down,” said Melillo. “I don’t know if it was fatigue, we lost concentration or both. We are still inexperienced and the kids are still learning. Sometimes you can learn from a loss.”
Upcoming games
The Pioneers faced Gloucester on Monday, Dec. 29, taking place after deadline. Lynnfield hosts Cathedral on Friday, Jan. 2, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
Lynnfield hosts Ipswich on Tuesday, Jan. 6, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Pioneers host Pentucket on Friday, Jan. 9, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The locals travel to Masconomet on Friday, Jan. 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
