Varsity volleyball dominated against Don Lugo 3-0 at a home game on Sept. 8.
The Mustangs started the first set with strong offensive and defensive plays, allowing them to gain points against the Conquistadors. With the Mustangs delivering strong serves, the Conquistadors struggled to get the ball over the net. The Mustangs executed strategic attacks, scoring numerous hits against their opponent and winning the first set 25-19.
“We got a lot of free balls, so I was able to run a three, which I don’t usually [do] if it’s a hard team”, middle blocker senior Cindy Nguyen said. “I think today we did really good on communication and playing for each other, like knowing each other’s role[s] and trusting each other.”
The Conquistadors gained the first point in the second set because of an out-of-rotation of the Mustangs in their serve receive. Don Lugo continued this momentum by executing multiple strong attacks with smart tips and spots. Despite the initial deficit, the Mustangs came back with powerful kills and hits, with the Conquistadors unable to defend. The Mustangs played consistently and powerfully, with a lot of hustle and good pick-ups that ended the second set 25-14.
“We have been working on hitting deep corners during practice and I believe I have been able to apply this more throughout gameplay, scoring more points,” outside hitter junior Sydnee Montanez said. “We are so lucky to have so many amazing defensive players that are able to pass dimes so all offensive hitters can shine having amazing swings and overall bringing up our energy as a team.
After winning the second set, the Mustangs’ success grew as they continued to communicate on the court to work together as a team. Unable to keep up with the Mustangs’ attacks, defense and serves, the Conquistadors were out of sync and had scrappy plays, resulting in Walnut winning the last set 25-7.
“I think just seeing the chemistry between girls who sometimes don’t always [go on] the court, shows that what we’re working on in practice is still doing that for them. And it doesn’t matter how much time you get on the court, but as long as you have the chemistry with your teammates, you can pull off one,” Head Coach Katie Meier said. “Sometimes it’s very easy for us to play down, and I think we saw that in the first two sets. So, ensuring that no matter what, we’re playing our best every single set, every match, regardless of who’s on the other side.”
