Wildcats Nearly Slay Goliath, Fall in North Semifinal

In the North Division 2 girls basketball semifinals, David ran out of steam just when Goliath was on the ropes. But it was an impressive effort nonetheless.

Wilmington High School took on the role of the massive underdog heading into a match up with unbeaten defending state champion Reading on Thursday night, and things looked bleak with the Rockets leading by 16 points in the second half.

But slowly, the Lady Wildcats chipped away until Michelle Woods drained a three-pointer to pull the team within one point. A Reading turnover later and Wilmington suddenly had the ball with the chance to take the lead early in the final quarter.

Reading showed its veteran experience, however, as it took over from there and went on to a 63-51 victory to advance to face North Andover in the bracket final on Saturday.

Alex Derian led the way with four three-pointers and 14 points, Woods chipped in 12, Rachael Mara and Christa Brent each had 9 points and Carli Brent added 7 points of her own in the loss.

"From where we started this year to be a one point against the best team in the state with the best player in the state, I'm really proud of my kids. I can't really say anything more about it," said head coach Jay Keane.

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• Late Surge Moves Girls Basketball Into North Semifinal
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