A dynamic front line propelled the Daviess County volleyball team to their fifth win in as many games after defeating Owensboro 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 26-24) on the road Tuesday night.
While pleased with the victory, head coach Tyla Bailey alluded to some areas that the Lady Panthers (17-6, 3-1 9th District) must improve upon moving forward.
“Thankfully we pulled it out despite not playing our best game,” she said. “We did some good stuff, but we had several small mistakes. Our energy struggled as the sets progressed, and I think that’s where several of our mistakes stemmed from.”
The Lady Devils (8-14, 0-4) entered the contest with a refreshed identity after coming off a three-game winning streak. Inching closer and closer with each set, they took the Lady Panthers down to the wire in set three before eventually losing the final frame 26-24.
Despite the loss, head coach Melissa Hibbs was pleased with her team’s effort and attributes the energy they brought to their recent success.
“I’m very proud of my girls because of the fight that they had in them tonight,” she said. “We played at a high level. The past few games allowed us to develop a rhythm and play with a new sense of confidence. We’ve come back in several matches that we know we can win against tough teams.”
Owensboro displayed their best efforts in the third and final frame, forcing the Lady Panthers into a back-and-forth bout, something they were unable to do in the first two sets.
“I think during the first two sets we laid off on some plays and allowed them to go on some runs,” Hibbs said. “I think we cut that down in the third set. They didn’t go on many runs against us.”
Bailey credited Owensboro’s efforts in limiting the Daviess County runs and forcing competitive sets.
“Owensboro showed up to play. It was a battle,” she said. “We lost energy, they had it, and they capitalized on that. We have to battle point by point and play our game.”
Elizabeth Moore led the offensive attack for the Lady Panthers with 13 kills, while Ashton Johnson added nine. Hannah Axley recorded a game-high 18 assists, and Ryann Keller added 12 of her own. Defensively they were carried by Kloee Phelps and Kendal Goetz, who recorded 14 and 10 digs respectively, while Kinsley Phelps added four blocks.
Lainey Hayden led Owensboro with four kills and five blocks, while Krystell Pappas tallied seven assists. Jersie Rhineburger led the defensive effort with 16 digs.
Owensboro will take on Franklin Simpson at home Thursday. Daviess County will also play at home Thursday when they host defending 3rd Region champion Breckinridge County, who remains unbeaten against region opponents this year.
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