THE MELROSE High boy’s soccer team is a fantastic 5-1 and on a 3-game winning streak. Pictured is Joseph Beshel. (Raj Das www.edphotos.com)
Wakefield, Watertown no obstacle for Melrose (5-1)
By JENNIFER GENTILE
WAKEFIELD—The Melrose Red Raider soccer team is rolling right along and now an impressive 5-1 after a three-game winning streak and three straight shutouts put up against Freedom rivals this week. At 5-1, Melrose sits plum on top of the league as they gear up for tonight’s battle with Burlington, which takes place at 8:00 p.m. during Melrose Soccer Night.
Melrose has been simply masterful in one week. They haven’t given up a goal in three straights games behind the great work of Jay Vogel at the net and an entire Melrose defensive squad.
They began their winning ways with a super impressive 3-0 shutout over a competitive Stoneham team on the road on Sept. 22. Goals were courtesy of Parker Thorton, Joey Beshel and Jovan Ssebugwawo. Melrose goalie Jay Vogan earned the shutout at the net.
Against Watertown, Melrose’s Parker Thorton continued his fantastic season. The senior captain had 2 goals and 2 assists. Teammate Joey Beshel had a good night with 2 assists and another season standout, freshman Amir Lahkiky, offered up two goals as well.
And just this past Tuesday, under terrential rain at the Wakefield Middle School, Melrose competed to yet another shutout thanks to goals from Parker Thorton (on an assist by Liam O’Hara) and Liam Gavin (assisted by Amir Lahkiky) while Jay Vogan shutdown efforts at the net to keep the Warriors scoreless.
At 5-1, Melrose is right where they want to be on top of the Middlesex Freedom League. On the docket are games against Burlington at home tonight and a road trip to Wilmington on Monday.
A big night is on tap for Melrose, who will host their annual Soccer Night prior to the start of their game against Burlington. The varsity girls’ game will be at 6:00 p.m. and the boys’ game will be at 8:00 p.m.
As part of the festivities, Soccer Night is inviting 3rd and 4th grade players to join the varsity players as they walk onto the field. There will be halftime events and giveaways. The concession stand will be open with pizza, hot dogs, snacks, and treats for purchase. Admission is free for everyone! Go watch these winning teams and celebrate the sport you love.