Hosts Masco today at 5:00 p.m. at Fred Green Field
Published in the June 8, 2018 edition
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—The Melrose Red Raider lacrosse team begins what they hope will be a long and successful postseason this evening, Friday, June 8 at 5:00 p.m. when they host Masconomet at Fred Green Field in the opening round of the MIAA Div. 2 North playoffs. Melrose enters the season as the #1 seed and division favorite after compiling a 17-1 season and clinching a Middlesex Freedom title.
THE MELROSE Red Raider lacrosse team opens their playoffs tonight, Friday, June 8 at 5:00 p.m. at Morelli Field against Masconomet. Pictured is captain Jack Wells. (Donna Larsson photo)
Masconomet comes in as the 8th seed in the D2N bracket with a record of 11-7, but Melrose coach Matt James will not overlook them. “Masco is a kind of a funny team because this is their first year in Div. 2 after dropping from Div. 1. They played a tight game against Burlington and beat Hamilton-Wenham. We’ll be scouting Masco this week for sure.”
Right now, as Melrose prepares for Friday’s playoff opener, everyone seems to be in good shape. When asked if there any senior-itis on the team, James reports negative. “The team is focused and healthier now than at the beginning of the season and there is no fatigue. The kids are back in the gym working out and conditioning. Even our seniors.”
James is counting on Red Raider Nation to arrive on Friday in big numbers. “Crowd support always helps, it brings up our game.”
While Melrose prepares for the contest, James looks for the Red Raiders to stay focused and consistent. “We will add some wrinkles and re-focus on areas for playoffs, but overall we are in good shape and confident about our game.”
Should they advance, they will play the winner of Reading and Marblehead, two teams they beat this season. That action will take place on June 12 at a time/location to be determined. Fans are encouraged to visit www.miaa.net or visit our Twitter and Facebook pages.
