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Andover rolls past North Andover to advance to North final

Andover volleyball knew it faced a massive task in the Division 1 North semifinals, against a North Andover squad that had already beaten the Golden Warriors in the regular season.

But with a trip to the North final on the line, Andover was more than ready to shine.

Led by another big day for senior Julia McBride, No. 2 seed Andover downed No. 3 North Andover 25-17, 25-22, 25-17 in the Division 1 North semifinals on Wednesday night.

“It was a great win, an excellent win!” said Warriors head coach Jane Bergin. “We avenged a loss to them, which is always great. The kids were focused and played a wonderful game. North Andover gave us everything they could, but we played maybe our best match of the season.”

The victory sends Andover (19-3) to the Division 1 North final, where it will take on top-seeded Central Catholic, which beat Methuen in the other semifinal.

The Golden Warriors and Raiders split their two regular season meetings.

“We really wanted to get back into the North final,” said Bergin, whose squad beat Chelmsford in the North final last fall. “So we are looking forward to a great game against a great opponent.”

Leading the way for the Warriors was McBride, who notched a team-high 10 digs.

“She just does everything for us,” said Bergin. “She is only 5-foot-6 and she gets up over the net and blocks balls. She is an incredible leaper. She even hit two balls lefty. She is going to make a college coach very happy.”

Basketball star Jillian Webber, in her first year playing volleyball, led the Warriors in kills (12) and blocks (6). Kendra Moore added 22 service points and Sophia Want had 16 assists.

“Jillian was unstoppable,” said Bergin. “It’s amazing she’s been playing this sport for about three months. And Kendra was amazing serving. She was putting the ball into play and we had a great game passing. I am so proud of everyone.”