RallyNorth.net

Double-OT win sends Andover to North final

Sydney Gregory took the ball in from the right side and slid it across to Hanna Medwar, who buried the goal that gave No. 8 Andover a thrilling 2-1 double-overtime victory over No. 4 Natick in the Division 1 North semifinals on Thursday.

"It was unbelievable," said Golden Warriors head coach Maureen Noone. "Sydney took the ball in and slid it across. Hannah danced around defenders twice her size and knew she had to put it into the corner. And she did it."

Andover (14-2-5) advances to the Division 1 North final, where it will play No. 2 Masconomet (18-1-2) on Saturday (1 p.m.) at North Andover High. 

After a scoreless first half, Natick took the lead early in the second. But, with 17 minutes left in regulation, Gregory scored to send the game into overtime, then a double overtime.

The Warriors received stellarplay from goalie Ali Gasperoni, who turned in 10 saves.

"There were three or four shots that, on any other day, are goals," said Noone. "But Ali played outstanding. She made saves, came out and broke up plays and made huge stops on corners."

Andover will now take on a Masconomet team it tied 2-2 in each team's season-opener.

"They are a terrific team," said Noone. "We will have to play our best. But we are enjoying the ride right now. We are enjoying every win."