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North Reading swept Bedford 25-10, 25-12, 25-13 in a Division 2 semifinal contest and advanced to play in the finals at 4 p.m. Saturday at Andover against the winner of today's other semifinal game between Boston English and Melrose.

North Reading, a state finalist in Division 3 the last three years, including a championship in 2007, opened play in Division 2 without a hitch, ripping Greater Lowell 25-10, 25-12, 25-13. Kirsten Morrison had eight kills for the Hornets (20-1), Taylor Dyer had five kills and 18 assists and Katherine Mozzone had 14 service points, including eight aces.

The North Reading girls volleyball team tuned up for its first Division 2 state tournament, having moved up from Division 3 this year, with a sweep of Lexington. Kirsten Morrison led the Hornets (19-1), who will be seeded first or second, with 13 kills and four blocks.

NORTH ANDOVER — If ever there was a chance to knock off North Reading's vaunted girls volleyball team, this seemed like the year.

After all, the Hornets returned only three starters from last year's 23-2 squad and were moving up to tougher Division 2 competition.

After playing libero last season, captain and middle hitter Nicole Cecchini has contributed solidly everywhere on the court as evidenced in North Reading's 25-9, 25-13, 25-12 non-league win over Salem, Mass.