The Hopedale Blue Raiders picked up two huge wins in quick succession, showing both grit and firepower over the span of a few days. In a tight battle with Bellingham, Hopedale eked out a 2-1 victory as Ella Stokes scored both goals and Charlotte Bacon and Lexi Carroll supplied assists.
Though Hopedale entered that matchup as the heavy favorite against a struggling Bellingham squad (2-15), the Blackhawks played competitively and forced the Blue Raiders to grind for the result. Stokes’ heroics provided the margin of victory and underscored Hopedale’s ability to finish in close contests.
The Raiders then turned around and handled Maynard in convincing fashion, thumping the Tigers 5-0 in a dominant showing. Stokes continued her tear with a hat trick, and Lexi Carroll chipped in a goal and three assists to highlight a multi-faceted offensive attack. The victory improved Hopedale’s mark to an impressive 12-4 heading into tonight’s daunting assignment against undefeated Uxbridge.
Up next the Blue Raiders face the Spartans, who have been one of the state’s premier programs; Hopedale will need another top effort to challenge a team that has looked nearly unbeatable this season. For now, the back-to-back wins give Hopedale momentum and confidence as the postseason approaches.
