Published in the February 10, 2016 edition
SENIOR CAPTAIN Brendan Sullivan (3) led the Pioneers with 18 points during Lynnfield’s 51-38 victory over Pentucket Feb. 2. Lynnfield is currently riding a six-game win streak and is second in the Cape Ann League Large Division with a 12-3 record. (Courtesy Photo)
By DAN TOMASELLO
WEST NEWBURY — The boys’ basketball team has qualified for the Division 3 North state tournament.
The Pioneers (12-3) are currently riding a six game win streak and have the second best record in the Cape Ann League Large Division, trailing only archrival North Reading. The only teams that have defeated the Pioneers this season are North Reading, Masconomet and Hamilton-Wenham.
Lynnfield earned its sixth straight victory after dismantling Pentucket 51-38 Feb. 2. The Pioneers defeated the Sachems 55-46 in December. The two victories could end being damaging for Pentucket, who is trying to make a late push to qualify for the Division 3 North state tournament and defend its sectional title. Pentucket eliminated Lynnfield in last year’s tournament.
Senior captain Brendan Sullivan had a monster game for the Pioneers, finishing with a team-high 18 points. Senior Esaie Philantrope had six points and four steals. Senior Tucker Torosian flirted with a double-double, finishing with nine points and nine rebounds.
Pioneers head coach Scott MacKenzie praised the Pioneers’ performance against the Sachems.
“This game was a rock fight,” said MacKenzie. “Pentucket has always been a tough place for us to play and we knew going in that this thing would have to be won on the defensive end. The fellas locked it down when we needed stops and this was the difference in the game.”
Additional victories
The Pioneers crushed Triton 66-43 on Jan. 29. Lynnfield pounded struggling Georgetown 88-34 on Jan. 26.
Upcoming games
The Pioneers hosted Newburyport on Tuesday, Feb. 9, taking place after deadline. Lynnfield travels to Masconomet on Saturday, Feb. 13, beginning at 2 p.m.
The locals travel to Melrose on Monday, Feb. 15, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Pioneers host Arlington Catholic on Friday, Feb. 19, beginning at 2 p.m.
