NORTH READING—The Marblehead Magicians (1-0) got some in-season practice on Monday night, as they traveled to North Reading for an early-season scrimmage at Kipnes Court. 

Although the game got away from Marblehead in the fourth quarter, losing by a final score of 42-26, senior Kate Burns (6 points,11 rebounds) says her side played “really well” considering the team’s “experimental” approach. 

“Coach [Moran] was looking to get everyone in, he was trying people out in different positions, so for an experimental game we played really well,” Burns said.

For the first three quarters, the Magicians hung around, keeping the score within five points at the end of each period. 

The Magicians had a fair share of the lead in the first half and kept the shot-making at par with their opponents. However, the Hornets’ full-court press continued to keep Marblehead at bay for the majority of the half. 

“We’re getting it figured out,” said Burns when asked about her team’s performance against the press. “When we played Revere they weren’t pressing us, so this was the first time really putting it in.” 

Even with its struggles against the Hornets’ defense, Marblehead kept the game within striking range going into halftime (15-14).

The third quarter was an offensive explosion between both teams, with a combined 20 points and shot-making at all three levels of the court. 

However, it was the Hornets’ outside shooting that made the difference going into the 4th quarter. 

The Hornets led 27-22 going into the last eight minutes. The hosts were hot from the outside hitting four three-pointers which was enough to win the game.

“They just started making shots and we didn’t,” said senior Katie Pyne (5 points). “I don’t think it was our best shooting day, but we matched them pretty evenly.” 

Marblehead attention quickly turns to an early-season rivalry game on the road against Beverly on Tuesday night (6 p.m.), where the Magicians look forward to another instant classic. 

“We’ve had some really tight games [against Beverly] in the last couple of years, so it should be a fun and close game that we’re looking forward to,” Burns said. 

After tonight’s loss, Pyne and Burns both agreed that an early season scrimmage against a strong opponent can be a huge help to their young and developing team. 

“It’s always great to play against good teams and get better,” Burns said.

“This is really good practice for [the game vs Beverly], and I think we’ll be ready now,” Pyne said. 

Marblehead scoring leaders:

Kate Burns: 6 points

Katie Pyne: 5 points

Tess Andriano: 3 points 

Marietta O’Connell: 3 points

Hailey Schmitt: 2 points

Liv Goldwater: 2 points 

Ramona Gillet: 2 points