RallyNorth.net

Thanks to a fourth quarter rally at Triton Regional High School last night, the Newburyport Clippers clinched a tournament berth by out-dueling the Triton Vikings, 55-42.

The contest was a defensive battle throughout, but the Clippers proved to be the better team by hitting jump shots and nailing timely free throws.

The Manchester Essex boys basketball team found out that things could've been different this year, if the Hornets just could've stayed healthy.

Back at full strength for the first time in six games, Manchester Essex routed Triton, 73-55. The win boosted the Hornets record to just 5-12, but nevertheless head coach Bill Cahill is happy to have his whole team back.

Everything was lining up perfectly for the Rockport boys basketball team in what has so far been a tough season. After beating Essex Aggie on Wednesday, picking up its first win the process, the Vikings looked like they were in control against visiting Triton last night and were about to embark on their first win-streak.

Forget the fact that a 1-8 team traveled to a 5-2 team last evening in one of the hardest gyms in which to play in the entire Cape Ann League.

Instead, take a minute to remember some of the down-to-the-wire affairs between Triton and Georgetown during the last two seasons.

For seven years, the Triton basketball program has struggled with misfortune and untimely injuries, missing out on the state tournament since the 2000-01 season. But, to take a line from Bob Dylan, the times they are a-changin', because the Vikings return most of the talent from last year's team.

NEWBURYPORT | Down a 3-pointer at halftime of last night's season opener against Triton, Newburyport coach Tom L'Italien knew he needed to change his game plan.

The power inside game wasn't working.

Coach: Tim Connell (7th season)

Last season: 5-15

Key players: Joe Katin, sr.; Jim Dure, sr.; Kyle Devenish, sr.; Derek Clark, sr.; Devin Culverwell, sr.; Will Joy, sr.; Will Short, sr.