RallyNorth.net

BILLERICA — After a regular season riddled with injuries and inconsistency, the Central Catholic girls, for at least one night, walked off the court with hopes of an optimistic future.

The return of Eagle Tribune super teamer Casey McLaughlin spurred the 12th-seeded Raiders upset of fifth-seeded Billerica 63-57 last night in the first round of the Division 1 North Sectional.

Andover held host Billerica to just two first-quarter points, securing a 15-point advantage and extending it to a 64-42 victory. Nicole Boudreau was immense with 31 points including six 3-pointers, 14 rebounds, 10 steals and 6 assists. Jackie Alois had 12 rebounds and 5 steals in the win.

Abby Galloway-Burke had a double-double and Amanda Petrow was close with eight points and 10 rebounds, but Methuen dropped a 63-49 verdict to powerful Billerica.

Ally Fazio hit two big 3-pointers and forced a tough late 3-pointer as Andover survived upset-minded Billerica, 53-52. Fazio harrassed the Indians into an air ball but they scored a layup at the buzzer. Billerica led 41-40 after three. Nicole Boudreau (23 points, 6 3-pointers) and Andover had just enough for their 25th straight win.

North Andover couldn't get a late shot to fall and Billerica prevailed, 49-47 in OT. Morgan Lumb had 16 points and Michaeala Mello added 11 points and 10 boards for the Knights.