After press time:
North Reading defeats Triton 3-0 (Sept. 25)
THE HORNET volleyball team will try to reset for a tough stretch of three games in three straight nights starting on Monday. (Eric Evans File Photo)
Published September 26, 2024
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — On Monday evening, the North Reading High volleyball team lost to Newburyport, 3-1, at home. The Hornets won the first set, 25-21, however, the Clippers won the next three sets 25-19, 25-19 and 25-13.
“We played pretty well early on,” said Hornets head coach Mike Milone. “We were able to overcome an early deficit in that first set but were unable to the next three.”
With the defeat, the Hornets record dropped to 3-4 overall and 2-4 in the Cape Ann League as they lost their third consecutive match. The Clippers, meanwhile, improved to 5-3 overall and 5-2 in the CAL.
“They have a very big team,” pointed out Milone.
On Sept. 19, the Hornets were edged by host Hamilton-Wenham, 3-2.
The Generals won the first two sets, 27-25, and 25-17. However, the Hornets fought back winning the next two sets, 25-15, and 25-22.
In the final set, the hosts were able to prevail 15-11.
“We were missing two players and that means something with two evenly-matched teams,” said Milone. “Overall, we played well but we did miss a couple of opportunities.”
Julia Mulik played well according to Milone.
“She was a real standout that match,” stated Milone, about the senior outside hitter.
North Reading will have a tough schedule next week having to play three matches on three-straight nights.
On Sept. 30, the Hornets host Lynnfield. The next night, they welcome Wilmington for a non-league match.
On Oct. 2, North Reading returns to CAL play as they visit Essex Tech.
All three matches will start at 5:30 p.m.
