Chelsea High’s basketball team earned a 70-66 victory over Commonwealth League rival Lynn Tech last Thursday, positioning themselves as frontrunners for the 2010 league championship. The Red Devils improved to 8-0 in conference play, opening up a two-game lead over Tech, their closest competitor. From the opening tip, both squads showcased strong offensive execution in what proved to be a competitive matchup. Under Coach Jay Seigel’s direction, Chelsea maintained control throughout, establishing a six-point advantage by the end of the first quarter, extending it to 34-28 at halftime, and leading 51-45 after three quarters. The Red Devils sealed the victory with approximately two minutes remaining, pushing their lead to nine points. Tech’s defensive strategy centered on a box and one formation targeting CHS leading scorer Cesar Castro, which limited him to just four points in the first half. However, the 2009-2010 edition of the Chelsea quintet demonstrated considerable depth, with multiple scorers capable of contributing. While Tech focused their efforts on Castro, teammates Mark Reddick (14 points), Felix Crespo (13), and Joseph Rivera (12) all reached double figures, while freshman Sammy Mojica added nine points. Despite the defensive pressure, Castro finished as the game’s leading scorer with 19 points. “It was a great ballgame,” said Seigel. “Tech came at us with everything they had, but we responded well to the pressure on their home floor.” This significant conference win came sandwiched between two additional league victories. Against Shawsheen Tech, the Red Devils dominated with a 62-28 triumph. Castro contributed 13 points in limited action, while Ed Rosales added 12, Rivera scored 10, Ruiz had eight, Mojica and Crespo each contributed six, Reddick added three, and Greg Szalkowski finished with two. Chelsea’s victory over Greater Lawrence also came decisively, 59-38, with Castro leading the way at 18 points and Rivera contributing 12. The Red Devils, now 11-1 overall and already qualified for a Journey to the Tourney, face a demanding stretch ahead. Seigel’s squad will encounter four opponents across seven games, including two non-league matchups. Chelsea travels to former GBL opponent Revere tonight (Wednesday) seeking to avenge their only loss this season, followed by a Friday trip to Minuteman. The Red Devils will host Peabody, another ex-GBL rival, on Monday before traveling to Greater Lowell on Tuesday.
Red Devils top Tech, in driver’s seat for title
