Amesbury Triumphs Over North Reading in Thrilling Football Clash

AMESBURY, Mass. — In a thrilling encounter on Friday night, Amesbury solidified its status as a powerhouse in the Cape Ann League, edging North Reading 30-28 in a closely contested match at Landry Memorial Stadium.

Senior quarterback Justin Dube led the charge for Amesbury (6-0), throwing two touchdown passes and rushing for another. Junior Connor Scialdone also shone, contributing two touchdowns to the Redhawks’ effort.

“We always have a chip on our shoulder,” said Dube. “We saw a few people pick North Reading over us, so that definitely added fuel. North Reading hasn’t beaten our class, so we really wanted this one.” The game was marked by a powerful rushing attack from Amesbury, who amassed 252 yards on the ground.

Amesbury took a 12-7 lead into halftime, thanks to Scialdone’s 8-yard rushing score. North Reading’s Otto Indelicato cut the deficit early in the fourth quarter with a 4-yard touchdown, bringing the score to 18-14.

Scialdone responded with a stunning 49-yard touchdown run shortly after, extending the Redhawks’ lead to 24-13. “[Scialdone is] fearless,” said Amesbury coach Colin McQueen. “He’ll put his head down and just go. We leaned on him.”

Dube completed all four of his passes for 60 yards, connecting with senior Ben Wood for a 9-yard touchdown early in the game and later hitting Joe Celia for an 8-yard score. Dube’s biggest play was a remarkable 59-yard rush that secured a 30-21 lead for Amesbury with just over three minutes left.

Meanwhile, North Reading (5-1) put up a valiant fight, led by quarterback Jason Berry, who completed 16 of 24 passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns. Berry also showcased his athleticism with 106 rushing yards and a touchdown of his own.

“This matchup couldn’t have come at a better time,” said North Reading coach Ed Blum, reflecting on the tight rivalry between the two teams, which have met in fiercely contested games over the years.

The clash was intense, with both teams showcasing skilled plays and strong defenses, highlighting the competitive nature of high school football in the Cape Ann League.

Amesbury’s performance this season has set the stage for future contention, and with their unique run-heavy offense, they aim to maintain momentum.