Sachem girls get by Winthrop in thriller

  With each passing game, the Saugus High School girls’ basketball team is demonstrating its grit. The Sachems found themselves in a tight tussle last Friday night at home against Winthrop but were able to produce a hard-fought, 63-61 overtime victory. The Sachems were behind 30-27 at halftime and found themselves facing a 44-39 deficit after three quarters. Saugus was able to outscore the visitors 16-11 over the next eight minutes to bring the contest to an extra period tied at 55. A huge three-point shot by Ashleigh Moore late in regulation helped pave the way for the OT period.

  With Saugus trailing 61-58 late in the overtime period, Peyton DiBiasio sank two free throws to decrease the deficit to one, and Ashleen Escobar connected on two more to give the Sachems a 62-61 lead they would hold on to. Madi Femino made a key steal and DiBiasio added another free throw to account for the final margin.

  Winthrop had one last opportunity at the line in the waning seconds but missed the first of two free throws and had to attempt an intentional miss to try and grab the rebound. It didn’t work and the final buzzer sounded, as Sachem players stormed the court in celebration.

  Saugus Head Coach Mark Schruender described it as “probably the most exciting game” he’s ever coached. “It was back-and-forth, wire-to-wire, you name it,” he told the press afterward.

  Escobar had perhaps her best game of the season, at least offensively, as she poured in 23 points to help lead the Sachems. DiBiasio once again was a factor on the scoring side by finishing with 18 points. Schruender also cited Jessica Bremberg for her strong defensive play.

  The win improved the Sachems to 9-4 overall on the season. Saugus played at Triton on Wednesday and is scheduled to host Salem on Friday night (7 p.m. tip off).