Undefeated Warriors prevail, 11-10
Published in the May 19, 2017 edition
OVERTIME HEARTBREAK. Wakefield proved victorious in sudden death against Melrose last week, 11-10.
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—It was the most highly anticipated game on the schedule for the Melrose Red Raider lacrosse team this spring. And sure enough, the bout between Melrose and Wakefield boys lacrosse had the makings of a ML classic on Thursday, May 11 at Landrigan Field in Wakefield. Melrose fell in overtime, 11-10 to undefeated Wakefield (13-0), who is showing promise to be one of the top teams in the division.
It was a grudge match from start to finish and Melrose played a relentless second half, keeping the game tied at halftime and then forcing overtime with a Gabe Nyland equalizer that prompted a four minute sudden death. Wakefield’s PJ Iannuzzi broke Melrose’s heart with a game winning shot at 2:55 in overtime.
It was the closest thing to a loss this season for Wakefield, who have rolled over most of the competition this season. Melrose offense was on fire with Gabe Nyland accounting for four Melrose goals and Jack Wells three goals. Wakefield ran out of the gate with a lead of 3-0 before Jack Wells and Gabe Nyland struck to make it a 3-2 game. Melrose tied it up 5-5 at halftime by goals from Mike Calvert, Corbin White and Gabe Nyland. Wakefield took a 9-7 lead late in the second half before Nyland and Wells tied it up, with assists from Mike Pedrini. Wakefield had a slight 10-9 edge before Nyland forced overtime with a game-tying goal to make it 10-10.
Ianuzzi struck in sudden death, giving Wakefield the win, and ending a pretty serious scare for the Warriors. Both teams may run into each other again in Div. 2 North playoffs. Melrose, now 8-5, has a busy week ahead and has to lock in that tournament bid. Stay tuned.
Remaining schedule
5/17 at Watertown (2-12)
5/19 Stoneham (4-11) 3:45
5/20 at Beverly (9-6) 3:00
5/22 Burlington (11-4) 4:00
5/24 at Marblehead (8-7) 4:00
