Published in the April 28, 2017 edition
THE MELROSE Red Raider tennis team came up victorious again, this time a 5-0 win over Wakefield on Monday. (Donna Larsson photo)
By JENNIFER GENTILE
WAKEFIELD—The Melrose Red Raider tennis team earned another critical league win, this time a 5-0 victory over Wakefield (0-4) on the road at Dobbins Courts in Wakefield. Melrose improves to 3-2 on the season, having had some matches postponed due to weather. But on Monday it was all sunshine for the Red Raiders.
“It was a great group effort,” said head coach Matt Williams. “It a nice league win, and we continue to improve and show athleticism over the course of the season.”
Melrose swept the day, starting with senior captain Jack Mays at first singles, who defeated Wakefield’s James Hanron in sets of 3-6, 1-6. In second singles, Melrose junior Jack Jang beat freshman Noah Greif in sets of 2-6 and 4-6 and in third singles Melrose senior captain Sean Donovan prevailed over Zack Covelle 2-6, 2-6.
In first doubles, Melrose’s Sam Stallings and Caleb Zimmerman defeated Noah Sellers and John Stanfield, 0-6, 2-6. And in second doubles, Melrose seniors Sean Prendergast and Joe Connolly topped Warriors Johnny Stumph and Jack Palmer 3-6, 2-6.
“Wakefield’s first and second singles were very competitive and I give them a lot of credit,” says Williams.
So far Melrose has shown a great desire to win and always stand battle-ready. “We don’t like to lose,” laughs Williams. “We’ve had some marathon sessions just to get that extra point. We’re hoping to give our best in the road ahead and take every opponent one at a time.”
League play continues. After traveling to Watertown on Wednesday (post deadline) Melrose will host Stoneham at 3:30 at the Tremont Street Courts.
