NEW MARKET — All cylinders were firing in the Tandy Gymnasium for the Southmont Mounties Volleyball team in a first-round sectional victory over the South Putnam Eagles, 14-25, 25-14, 25-19, 25-13.
After dropping the first set to the Eagles, the Mounties didn’t look back and jumped out to a 7-0 lead in set two. Strong serving and strong hitting were keys to the Mounties quick success and carried them through the entire match.
Southmont Coach Erin Barry was pleased with her team’s focus to get the win.
“I’m so happy with the entire team because we refocused after set one and got the job done,” Barry said. “We kept our heads up, didn’t let the first set get us down, and we didn’t look back.”
The final three sets were all Mounties led by strong hits, hustle digs and good serves.
“We played well as a team, picking up each other when needed,” Barry said. “Our hitters did a good job putting the ball away after the first set. I think we had some nerves during the first set.”
The Mounties were led by Ella Barry who had 21 kills, Catie Himes with nine, and Kaylee Turner four. Mallory Mason had 39 assists. Barry had 27 digs, Jenna Grino and Mason 25 digs and Himes 23. Layla Gomez and Himes each had four service aces.
“Everybody did their job tonight,” Barry said. “I’m pleased, but we aren’t finished yet.”
The Mounties improve to 17-12 overall. They will face the North Putnam Cougars on Saturday in semifinal action at approximately 12:30 p.m. at Southmont. They will follow the 11 a.m. game between Parke Heritage and Greencastle. The sectional championship game will be played at 6 p.m. Saturday.
