North Andover West Defeats Billerica National

The North Andover 12 West District team advanced to the 12-year-old district semi-finals with a thrilling 4-1 victory at Billerica National.

Both teams were 1-1 in pool play entering the contest, each playing for the right to advance.

North Andover rode the superb pitching performance of Will Berberich who threw a complete game, scattering five hits and striking out six. 

Battery mate Sean McGinnis called a masterful game working all corners of the strike zone. This was no small feat as the Billerica team is known for its power hitting. North Andover trailed 1-0 after the first inning. In the top half of the second inning, the team pushed across two runs with the help of a clutch single by Anthony Sapienza.  North Andover pushed across another run in the fourth inning which was started by a Berberich single.  Pinch runner Jack Landers stole third base and scored after Zach Wolfgang lined a single to center as part of a 10 pitch at bat.

The West’s last run came in the top of the sixth. Berberich lead off with a double and then was moved along by a Chris Fulgione sacrifice bunt.  Zach Wolfgang then recorded his second RBI to bring home the fourth run.  An early threat by Billerica was thwarted by solid defense by first basemen Trevor Ham, shortstop Casey Orkney and third baseman Lee Goodman.

Matty Bosco contributed to the cause by reaching base safely both times at bat.

Through the first three games the team has been supported by the solid hitting of Matt Farmer.  Connor Morin has proven his versatility with excellent play in both left field and first base.

The victory leaves the West 2-1 in pool play keeping hopes alive to defend North Andover’s back to back district championships.