RallyNorth.net

Danvers takes care of business in OT

Danvers girls soccer coach Jimmy Hinchion knew his team was prepared for penalty kicks. He also knew the Falcons wanted to make sure the game wasn't decided by them.

Ashley Sullivan scored an unassisted goal six minutes into the first sudden death overtime period to lift Danvers to a 1-0 victory over Stoneham in the first round of the Division 2 North tournament.

"We went out on (penalty kicks) the last two years. We wanted to take care of business in regulation, but that didn't work out," Hinchion said. "They were happy not to go to penalty kicks because that's a tough way to end."

Sullivan broke through the defense on the left side and deposited a hard, left-footed shot into the upper right corner for the winner.

Hinchion was pleased with the defense of sweepers Mandy Walke and Kellie Macdonald, as well as the defense of backs Katelyn Gilbert, Emily Smith, Kathleen Landers, and Keri Mroszczyk. Caraline Moholland stopped six shots for the shutout.

"We really did not give them any chances, and that enabled us to keep them out of our end," Hinchion said. "We struggled offensively, but played well defensively."

Danvers (16-3) will host Saugus tomorrow (6:30) in the quarterfinals. The Falcons defeated Saugus twice during the regular season, 4-1 and 4-0.