RallyNorth.net

There is no debate.

The Amesbury Indians softball team has been the absolute cream of the crop in the River Rival region and Cape Ann League in the last five years.

Since 2004, Amesbury has posted records of 22-1, 23-0 (2005), 20-3 (2006) and 18-4 (2007). The Indians' nearly unbeatable quality appears to have carried over to 2008.

Locked up in a pitchers' duel between Triton's Lauren Sargent and Amesbury's Jordan Oliva, the Indians' Kelsey Fournier hit a fourth-inning solo home run that was the difference in the game.

Amesbury's Abby Pare made six assists from second base and Kerri Salvatore had a nice catch, while also throwing out a girl at first base from right field for the Indians. On the Triton side Mikaela Strangie was 2 for 2 with a single and a double.

For one game at least, North Andover showed some of the magic that helped carry the Knights to the Division 2 state finals last year.

Despite the influx of several newcomers and a defensive shuffle created by a recent injury to veteran first baseman Kristen O'Connor, the Knights opened their season by rallying past perennial power Amesbury, 6-4.

Coach: Chris Perry (24th season)

Last season: 18-4, lost in first round of Division 3 North tournament

Key players: Jordan Oliva, sr.; Katie Hathaway, sr.; Abbey Pare, sr.; Kelsey Fournier, sr.; Jackie Webber, jr.; Katelyn Bartley, jr.; Allison Thorton, jr.; Gabby Magnifico, jr.; Kerri Salvatore, so.