Published May 16, 2019

By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI

NORTH READING — The North Reading High softball team won its eighth consecutive game on Monday afternoon as they blanked host Masconomet 10-0 to complete the season sweep over the Chieftains. With that victory, the Hornets improved to 10-1 overall and 9-1 in the Cape Ann League. That win also clinched a bid to the Division 2 state tournament.

Shea Hansen was the winning pitcher going all seven innings. She gave up three hits, two walks and struck out six Chieftain batters to go to 6-1.

“She mixed her pitches well and kept them off balance,” said Hornets assistant coach Paul Greene.

EMMA LORD rips this pitch to center field for a base hit against Georgetown on May 10. (John Friberg Photo)

The Hornets offense had 15 hits led by Elli DeCleene who was a perfect 3 for 3 with two runs batted in. Jessica Ferrazzani was 2 for 2 with a walk and a solo homer.

Sophomore Julia Howse blasted a three-run homer to center field for her lone hit to break the game open.

“We got to use all 15 players as well,” added Greene.

Beat Royals

At home on May 10, the Hornets beat Georgetown by a final of 8-2.

Cassandra Pascucci was the story of this game for the locals in the circle and at bat. She improved to 4-0 going all seven frames. The senior gave up two runs (both unearned), five hits, no walks and she fanned 12 Royal batters.

At the dish, she went 3 for 4 with one RBI.

“She is leading our team in average and runs batted in,” pointed out Greene, as Pascucci hits out of the number two hole.

Senior co-captain, Emma Valade, went 2 for 4 with two RBI including a solo homer to left field.

Best Hornets

On May 8, North Reading won at Manchester-Essex, 9-2.

Hansen was the winning pitcher with another complete-game effort. She gave up one earned run, three hits, three walks and she struck out eight.

The offense had 12 hits. Hansen helped her own cause going 2 for 4 with two RBI while Emma Lord and Kaeleigh Arington were both 2 for 4 with one RBI. Valade added a two-run single.

The big inning was the second as North Reading plated five runs.

On Thursday, the Hornets visit Rockport. They then go to Newburyport on May 20. North Reading returns home on May 22 as they welcome Pentucket for a double-header.

The double-header will start at 3:30 p.m. while the other two games will start at 3:45 p.m.