REILLY TASSINARI created NR’s first goal on a perfect assist to Allie Lanciani in the team’s 2-0 win over Lynnfield on Sept. 19, moving to 7-0 on the season. (Eric Evans File Photo)
After press time:
North Reading defeats Newburyport 2-1 (Sept. 24)
Published September 26, 2024
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
LYNNFIELD — On Sept. 19, the undefeated North Reading High girls’ soccer team visited rival Lynnfield. The Hornets ended up shutting out the Pioneers 2-0.
With the victory, the Hornets improved to 7-0 overall and 6-0 in the Cape Ann League while the Pioneers fell to 3-2 overall and in the CAL.
North Reading scored once in each half. Allie Lanciani opened the scoring 15:48 into the first half assisted by Reilly Tassinari.
“It was special,” said Hornets head coach Sean Killeen, about the play as Tassinari, executed a good turn that evaded two Lynnfield defenders before delivering a perfectly timed through ball to Lanciani.
The Pioneers had a chance to tie the game on a penalty kick but the attempt was over the crossbar.
“That could have been a turning point,” Killeen noted. “Lynnfield was starting to gain momentum and you could feel the shift. The missed PK really energized our team.”
Pia Sfikas had the other tally 26:25 into the second half and that goal was unassisted.
Hornet goalkeeper, Macy Kurchian, made three saves to record her sixth shutout of the year.
What Killen likes about his squad is how versatile they are when they need to change positions.
“These athletes are excellent soccer players and can succeed in various positions on the field,” he said. “For example, (Marissa) Montana, a four-year varsity player, spent most of her time attacking from the wing but now anchors our back line organizing our best 11. Allie (Lanciani) has played center back in prior years and is willing to shift back in tight matches to help preserve the lead. It provides so much flexibility and makes this team very fun to watch”
The next game for the Hornets will be on Sept. 26 as they host Rockport at 4 p.m.
North Reading then hosts Essex Tech on Oct. 1 at 4:45 p.m. looking for the season sweep over the Hawks as they beat them 7-0 back on Sept. 3 in the season opener.
