Post-publication updates:
North Reading defeats Chelmsford 4-0 (Sept. 20)
North Reading defeats Lynnfield 1-0 (Sept. 18)
Published September 18, 2025
Boys’ soccer team beats Manchester-Essex, ties Ipswich
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — On Tuesday afternoon, the North Reading high boys’ soccer team blanked Manchester-Essex on a warm, sunny day at home. With that win, the Hornets improved to 3-0-1 overall and in the Cape Ann League.
In the first half, Asher Schulz scored in the 29th minute assisted by Seth Evans.
The score stayed that way until the 71st minute while Davi Leao scored on a penalty kick as he got fouled in the box. His shot then found the left side of the net to close the door.
Sophomore goalkeeper Dylan O’Driscoll, made three saves to go to 3-0-1 in net.
“He made one spectacular diving save early in the second half to keep the score at 1-0,” pointed out Hornets head coach Mark Bisognano.
On Sept. 11, the Hornets tied Ipswich, 1-1, on the road. This game was scoreless at the half.
Just two minutes into the second stanza, Peter Plavins gave the locals a 1-0 lead assisted by Gavin Wesley.
The Tigers got the game-tying tally in the 64th minute.
“We were sloppy in the midfield area in that first half,” said Bisognano. “We did play better in the second half.”
O’Driscoll had one save in that game as the Tigers were only able to muster two shots on net.
On Thursday, the Hornets host rival Lynnfield. That game will be under the lights as it will start at 6 p.m.
North Reading then plays its first non-league game on Sept. 20 as they welcome Chelmsford. That game will start at 2 p.m.
The Hornets return to CAL play on Sept. 23 up in Danvers to take on Essex Tech. That game will start at 5 p.m.