Buzz Is, North Reading Offense Can Score In Hurry

Two non-league wins does not a season make. But for North Reading it's proof that preseason optimism wasn't wrong. At least so far.

The Hornets have scored 42 and 35 points in wins over Northeast and Greater Lawrence. But it's time to step up from those Commonwealth Conference foes and begin Cape Ann League play. North Reading hosts Hamilton-Wenham Friday at 7 p.m. in week three of the high school football season.

The Generals are coming off a 34-7 loss to Bishop Fenwick but with Fenwick established already as the team to beat in Division 6 North, it's tough to judge H-W on that one loss. North Reading lost to H-W, 27-22, last fall.

Behind the points for North Reading is the play of quarterback Brian Heffernan. The junior has a state-best nine touchdown passes in two games, including four against Greater Lawrence last week.

Winchester (2-0) and Wakefield (1-1) are off this week but it's back to work for other area teams.

Northeast (0-2) at Greater Lawrence (1-1), Friday, 4 p.m. - the Commonwealth Conference opener for both teams.

Lynnfield (1-0) at Medford (0-1), Friday, 6 - after going 9 for 13 for 170 yards in opener, Clayton Marengo gets back to work against winless Mustangs.

Arlington at Stoneham (0-1), Friday, 6 - with two weeks to tinker after loss to Bishop Fenwick, can Spartans right the ship in Middlesex opener?

Reading (0-1) at Acton-Boxboro (2-0), Friday, 7 - another huge challenge against a Dual County League power. A-B has wins over Lexington and Chelmsford.

Austin Prep at Cardinal Spellman, Saturday, 1 - It was another frustrating offensive week for the Cougars with the offense able to generate just one score. This week it's a Catholic Central opponent coming off a big shutout win. It's not getting any easier for AP.