SOPHOMORE Sarah Mezini defeated her Ipswich counterpart in two sets during first singles, 6-0, 6-0, on April 6. The Pioneers defeated the Tigers 5-0 to open the 2014 season. (File Photo)
By DAN TOMASELLO
LYNNFIELD — The girls’ tennis team picked up right where last season ended, as the Pioneers opened the 2015 season with two decisive victories last week.
The Pioneers opened the Cape Ann League season dismantling Ipswich 5-0 on Monday, April 6.
Sophomore Sarah Mezini dominated first singles from start to finish and defeated her opponent in two sets, 6-0, 6-0. Senior captain Kelley Nevils defeated her second singles counterpart in straight sets, 6-2, 6-0. Senior captain Izzy Figucia cruised to an easy two set victory in third singles, prevailing 6-2, 6-0.
Junior Olivia Skelley and sophomore Katie Nevils pulled out a decisive first doubles victory in two sets, prevailing 6-0, 6-0. Senior Rachel Maglio and junior Amanda Stelman prevailed 6-0, 6-0 during second doubles.
Pioneers head coach Craig Stone commended the Pioneers’ performance against the Tigers.
“Ipswich graduated their top three singles players from last year while the Pioneers returned the same three,” said Stone. “Skelley, playing with her third partner in three years yields a familiar result, another win.”
Stone was also pleased Katie Nevils made the “transition to the doubles court after playing all singles last year.” He was also impressed that Maglio and Stelman had “little trouble” during second doubles.
Defeats Bedford
The Pioneers kept rolling and defeated Bedford 5-0 on Friday, April 10.
Mezini cruised to an impressive two set victory during first singles, prevailing 6-0, 6-1. Kelley Nevils defeated her second singles counterpart in two sets, 6-0, 6-1. Figucia dismantled her third singles opponent in two sets, 6-0, 6-1.
Skelley and Katie Nevils continued their strong play on the court and defeated their first doubles opponents in two sets, 6-0, 6-1. Sophomores Camie Foley and Katie Nugent pulled out a two set victory during second doubles, prevailing 6-1, 6-4.
Stone said he was pleased Foley and Nugent were able to come out on top in their second doubles debut.
“The Pioneers showcased their team depth with their second, second doubles team in back-to-back matches,” said Stone.
Upcoming matches
The Pioneers faced North Andover on Tuesday, April 14, taking place after deadline. Lynnfield hosts Masconomet on Wednesday, April 15, beginning at 3:30 p.m. The Pioneers travel to Manchester-Essex on Thursday, April 16, beginning at 3:30 p.m.
