THE NRHS softball team had plenty to celebrate in their 3-2 walk-off win over Essex Tech on Monday. (Eric Evans Photo)
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — On Monday afternoon, the North Reading High softball team hosted Cape Ann League newcomer, Essex Tech, for its league opener.
The Hornets were able to pull out an exciting 3-2 win over the Hawks.
Jocelyn Ostrowsky was the hero in this one as the senior co-captain delivered a game-winning single to right field, plating Caitlin Reilly, who scored from second with two outs.
The team then swarmed Ostrowsky, who beat out the throw as the right fielder tried to get her out at first.
“They have a pretty decent team,” said Hornets head coach Nicole Zimmerman, whose squad improved to 2-0 overall and 1-0 in the league. “They have good pitching and are a welcome addition to our league.”
The Hornets scored their two other runs in the third and fifth innings while the Hawks scored their two runs on an error in the top of the fourth.
In that seventh frame, Reilly singled with two outs and then stole second. Aliva Heck then walked to set up Ostrowsky’s heroics.
North Reading had 10 hits led by Reilly who was 3 for 4 with two runs scored. Heck was a perfect 2 for 2 with the walk while Jillian Corbett was 2 for 3 with an RBI.
Pitcher Keely Hannon improved to 2-0 going all seven innings. The senior co-captain gave up two runs (both unearned), three hits, two walks and she struck out nine.
This game started at 5 p.m. which was 45 minutes later than the scheduled starting time due to the eclipse.
North Reading will now visit Pentucket this Saturday morning at 10 a.m. They then visit Reading in a non-league game next Monday on Patriot’s Day. That game will start at 4:15 p.m.
