Published January 30, 2019
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
LYNNFIELD — Last Friday night, the Lynnfield High girls’ basketball team hosted one of the elite teams in the Cape Ann League as Masconomet came to town. The Chieftains showed why they are in contention for the CAL Kinney division title as they won, 49-15.
With the defeat, the Pioneers record fell to 7-7 overall and 3-7 in the CAL as Masco was able to sweep the season series.
“Their defensive pressure got to us,” said Lynnfield head coach Peter Bocchino, as the 15 points was the team’s lowest total this season.
AVA BUONFIGLIO (11) and Riley Hallahan (22) both played great defense off the bench to help the Pioneers beat Winthrop on Jan. 24. (John Friberg Photo)
Masconomet led 24-10 at the half and then outscored the Pioneers 25-5 in the second half.
The Chieftains press defense caused several turnovers that led to several easy baskets.
Melissa Morelli led the Pioneers with eight points while Ava Buonfiglio had a team-high five rebounds.
Lynnfield was playing its second game in two nights as, the night before, they edged guest Winthrop, 48-43, in a non-league game.
After falling behind early, the Pioneers took the lead late in the first quarter and never gave it up. They got their lead to double digits in the second half but the Vikings, a team out of the Northeastern Conference, fought back in the fourth quarter to make things interesting.
Bocchino was pleased with the play of Ava Buonfiglio and Riley Hallahan.
“Riley is our most aggressive player and played tremendous defense,” said Bocchino. “Ava also played good defense. They both gave us a spark off the bench.”
Lynnfield must go at least 3-3 in its final six games in order to qualify for the state tournament.
This Friday night at 7 p.m., they visit North Reading (7-4). They then welcome Georgetown (1-13) on Feb. 5. Tip-off for that game is at 6 p.m.
