The Reading Rockets kicked off their season in dominant fashion Friday night, overpowering Middlesex League rival Melrose with a decisive 36–12 victory at Hollingsworth Field.
Junior running back Dominic Pate was the star of the night, racking up three touchdowns, including a 30-yard sprint in the first quarter and a 4-yard punch-in to open the second half. He also showcased his versatility by turning a screen pass from quarterback Will Chute into a 25-yard score late in the first half.
Chute, showing poise and precision, connected twice with senior wide receiver Ryan Pulpi, whose elite speed turned short passes into long touchdowns. Pulpi’s first score came on a 55-yard catch-and-run, and he followed it up with a blazing 68-yard touchdown in the third quarter. Pulpi, an All-Scholastic and State Champion in track, proved why he’s one of the most dangerous weapons in the league.
Melrose managed to respond with two touchdowns in the first half, narrowing the gap to 14–12, but failed to convert on both extra point attempts. A late first-half drive by Reading extended the lead to 21–12, and the Rockets never looked back.
By the end of the third quarter, Reading had stretched the lead to 36–12, and the defense held firm to close out the game.
Melrose had come into the matchup riding high after a convincing win over Peabody, but Reading’s explosive offense and disciplined defense proved too much to handle.
The Rockets (1–0) now turn their attention to the Danvers Falcons (2–0), with an away game scheduled for 6:30 PM next week.
Dominic pate
Thank you, we have corrected his first name spelling.
Thank you 😊