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Hillies stun Andover for first win over Warriors in 12 years

HAVERHILL — Just eight days after smashing a nearly three-year MVC win drought, the Haverhill girls made in two victories in three games with a thrilling 52-50 win over Andover.

According to Eagle-Tribune records, the previous Haverhill girls hoop win over Andover was Feb. 12, 2004.

It snapped a 14-game-losing streak to Andover and a streak of 23 of the last 24.

"This is a huge win for us. We've had our turn at the bottom of the barrel, and we've been scrapping and fighting and trying to give these girls some hope," said coach Melissa Tarpy. "I can't tell you how hard they work. Things are finally starting to click. They're finally seeing the effort they put in, with good results coming back."

Junior Jenna Solimine led the winners with 18 points, and sophomore Jordyn O'Boyle chipped in 13.

"They were face-guarding (top scorer) Abbey (Battaini) all night, and both Jenna and I knew we had to step up," said O'Boyle. "We played with a much different attitude. We have more confidence in ourselves. We were much more upbeat tonight, and we played all four quarters as a team."

Battaini, despite all kinds of Andover attention, finished with nine big points for the Hillies.

"It's the biggest win in my three years by far," said Tarpy.

Andover's Jillian Webber netted a game-high 31 points. Both teams are now 2-4.

The Hillies travel to Georgetown on Thursday, while Andover is at Central on Friday night.