Watertown Field Hockey Rolls Over Newburyport

The  field hockey team didn't let the wet and windy weather conditions stop it from stealing the show at Reading Memorial High School on Tuesday night, registering a 3-0 win over Newburyport in the North Section semifinals. 

"It's a team effort, and it's all about the team," said Watertown coach Eileen Donahue. "You can't do it without everyone out there," she added. 

With the win, the  (22-0-0) move on the final of the MIAA North Division 2 tournament. They are defending Division 2 State Champions, and are hoping to capture the elite title once again.

The Raiders were able to get on the board early on in the first half with a quick goal by sophomore Alyssa Carlson. 

With just two minutes left to play in the first half, Carlson registered an assist to teammate Erika Kelly, who capitalized on the well-placed ball and tucked it past Nerburyport's keeper, Stephanie Ferreira. Just like that, the Raiders had a 2-0 advantage at the half thanks heavily to Carlson's strong play. 

Watertown came out aggressive in the second half, scoring just three minutes in thanks to senior Kaitlyn Carlson. Kaylee McNamara registered the assist. 

"I thought we had good ball movement today, especially second half," said Donahue.

Neither team would score again for the remainder of the game, locking in the 3-0 victory for the Raiders. 

"Newburyport was a strong team, and they made it down our defensive end at times, so there are still many aspects of the game we have to work on," Donahue said. "I'm happy for the girls, and they know we have our work cut out for us with whoever we play next."

The Raiders will either take on No. 14 Bishop Fenwick (11-8-1) or No. 2 Manchester (20-0-1) who face of in the other North Section semifinal Wednesday. The game will be played at 11 a.m. Saturday at North Andover High School.

Bishop Fenwick, who is seeded second to last, has made an improbable playoff run throughout this post-season. They upset No. 3 Marblehead in the first round, and Rocktport (No. 11) in the quarterfinals against all odds. 

Note: Manchester beat Bishop Fenwick 4-0 Wednesday. Watertown faces Manchester in the North Section Div. 2 final Saturday at 11 a.m. at North Andover High School.