Updates post publication:
North Reading falls to Lynnfield 15-11 (May 2)
North Reading falls to Newburyport 18-8 (April 30)
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — The 12-day layoff over April Vacation Week did not affect the North Reading High girls’ lacrosse team on Monday afternoon as they defeated Essex Tech, 12-5, at home on a sunny, warm day.
With that victory, the Hornets climbed over the .500 mark as they improved to 5-4 overall and 3-4 in the Cape Ann League.
The Hawks, meanwhile, fell to 4-5 overall and 3-4 in the CAL.
North Reading was able to complete the season sweep over the Hawks as they won the first meeting, 8-7, on April 12.
“The defense was amazing,” stated Hornets head coach Matt Costello. “This was the best they played all season and Cara (Ward) was lights out in net.”
Ward made seven saves to improve to 5-4 in goal.
The Hornets led this game, 7-2, at the half as they outscored the Hawks, 5-3, in the second half.
Eva Cannalonga led the Hornet attack with three goals. Addison Hajj had two goals and one assist while Alaina Driscoll and Mikaela O’Driscoll both scored twice.
Makenzie Murphy, Lindsay Rosenthal and Sophia El-Sheikh all scored once. El-Sheikh also had one assist.
Rosenthal also caused her 100th-career turnover during the game.
On Friday, the Hornets will visit rival Lynnfield at 4:30 p.m.
North Reading will then host Arlington Catholic in a non-league game on May 5. Two days later, they return to CAL action as they visit Triton up in Byfield. Both of those games will start at 4:15 p.m.