Eyeing another title in 2019
Published March 29, 2019
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—The reigning Middlesex Freedom League champion Red Raider lacrosse team is back.
2018 was a bit of a Cinderella season for Melrose, who flew through the regular season at a near flawless 17-1. They entered the Div. 2 North playoffs as a number one seed, advanced two rounds in playoffs before losing to eventual state champ Reading, 11-6.
What that playoff experience proved was that many of the best lacrosse teams in the state are right here in the Middlesex League. For that reason, expect the Red Raiders to perform in top form against some of the best competition in the state when they start their season on Wednesday when they travel to Marblehead for a 6:30 p.m. game.
On Friday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. they host Div. 1 State Champ Acton Boxborough in a must-see game. Being tested early and thoroughly is an important ingredient for success this season, according to longtime Melrose coach Matt James. The Red Raiders may have lost ten seniors last year, but they return with a good amount of offense and a top ranked goalie.
Much falls on the shoulders of All-American goalie Matt Rocha, a senior Colby College commit who is known as one of the best goaltenders in the division. “He’s a player who competes so hard,” says coach James. “He conditioned really well on the off season and is faster, stronger and just all over the net.”
Leading as captains are Rocha, Chris Cusolito, Andy Calvert and Brendan Maher. Expect Cusolito to be a jack of all trades on the field, serving as middie and attacker. Calvert will be counted on for his strong midfield skills and Maher returns to help man Red Raider defense.
Look for attackers Brendan Fennell and Christian Nyland to put points on the board. Both were crucial to Melrose’s supercharged offense last season. “They will pick up where they left off,” says the coach. “Both are such strong players.”
And watch out for sophomore Matt Dussault, who had a statement season last year. “He’s been looking great,” says James. “He’s worked really hard in the game on the offseason and his size is a great advantage.”
New addition Liam Maher is a player James is excited about. “I expect him to make an impact on offense. He’s already scored two goals in the pre season.” James also notes that defenders Ryan Maher and Will Brandon could also be impact players.
Newcomer Joe Lucien is impressing in the preseason. “He’s new to our team but looks like he has great potential.” And he also notes returner Oliver Hannon. “This kid could be a difference maker. He’s had a tremendous offseason.” And on defense, look for Nolan Castergine to shine.
Look for offense to be their calling card as the Red Raiders kick off next week. Recent scrimmages has seen the team generate a smart and speedy offense. “Our offensive unit has great chemistry, they read the ball and communicate well. Our attackers are strong. I like what I see so far.”
Melrose will face a challenging schedule this season and James likes it that way. “The Middlesex League is one of the best leagues in the state, and our non league games are meant to challenge us. Our goal is to win the league again.”
Reading appears to be the early favorite in the large division, and look for Burlington and Wakefield to challenge Melrose for a Freedom title. Concludes James, “If we can match last year’s effort, I’ll be happy.”
Upcoming schedule
4/3 @ Marblehead, 6:30
4/5 v. Acton-Boxborough, 6:30
4/9 @ Lexington, 4:00