Published in the November 25, 2015 edition
HOTLY CONTESTED. Katie Welch, senior captain and midfielder, fights her Medway opponent for the ball. Medway beat North Reading, 1–0 in the state semi–final. (Steve Nathan Photo)
By DAN NUNN
LYNN— The Lady Hornets’ superb season and tournament run ended at the hands of the Medway Mustangs 1-0 in the Division 3 girls’ soccer State semifinals at Manning Field in Lynn Nov. 18.
Despite the loss, Coach Sean Killeen was glowing in his praise. “I couldn’t be prouder of this team. Everybody wants to win and nobody enjoys falling short, but this team’s success was earned each and every day.”
The Mustangs controlled the first half and outshot the Hornets 8-1. In the 17th minute Medway’s hard work paid off. Junior Alexa Rasmussen streaked down the far sideline and sent a high arcing shot toward the goal. Junior Katerina Hassapis made the initial save, but as she fell to the ground the ball bounced out of her hands and an unmarked senior, Sarah DiPillo, tapped in the rebound for the goal.
HORNET SOPHOMORE, midfielder Juliette Nadeau, makes her move against Medway in the state semi final game won by Medway in a squeaker. (Steve Nathan Photo)
The Mustangs continued to bombard Hassapis the rest of the half and if not for her stellar play the 1-0 halftime deficit could have been a lot worse.
North Reading’s best chance came in the 51st minute. Sophomore Rachel Hill got into the box. Unfortunately her pass just slid out of the reach of two Hornets for easy tap-ins.
For the rest of game Medway stifled the North Reading offense and the Mustangs went on to victory.
Killeen went on to say, “I was constantly impressed with the leadership of the captains and seniors as they valued the importance of this team and the goals that were set at the beginning of the season.
“Over the past 23 games we watched different players step up and make the difference; it was really special. As Division 3 North Champions they have achieved something very special, and more importantly, these players have raised the bar for future teams.”
