Wildcats closing in on last year’s win total

Posted 10/10/15

By Derrick Forsythe Record Staff Writer The Wright City volleyball team is on pace to match its win total from a year ago, after taking two out of three matches at the Principia Tournament on …

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Wildcats closing in on last year’s win total

Posted
Record Staff WriterThe Wright City volleyball team is on pace to match its win total from a year ago, after taking two out of three matches at the Principia Tournament on Saturday.The Wildcats finished second, losing only to the host team (27-25, 23-25,13-15) in a tight opening contest.“We played really good at the tournament,” said Coach James Baker. “We came out strong to win that first set, but there was a momentum shift during that second set. They started correcting their errors and were able to gain an edge on us.”Wright City continued to battle through the third set, making Principia earn each point and keying on its top threat.“They had one really strong outside hitter and we seemed to be prepared for her and were reading the plays well,” said Baker.The Wildcats rebounded from the setback against Barat, claiming a two-set victory (25-16, 25-18) in dominant fashion.“That match wasn’t too difficult,” said Baker. “We were on top of our game in that one. We corrected the small service errors and were covering our line a lot better in that game.”Wright City battled McCluer North in the final match, taking the win in two sets (25-12, 25-17). The Wildcats made easier work of the Stars as compared to last year, when it took three sets to escape with a victory.“This was our best match,” said Baker. “We were covering very good and everybody was moving their feet. We seemed to want it a little more.”DeAsha Briner was particularly helpful during that stretch, hammering out six kills.Baker also complimented the play of Abbie Nitchman and Sydnee Horneker.“Abbie was picking off the back corners really good on the left and right,” said Baker. She had a few blocks as well, including three in the last game.”He says the most pivotal force behind the Wildcats’ success has been their willingness to adjust and adapt to the game plan.“I think we’ve improved our defensive strategy,” said Baker. “It’s gotten much better as the season has gone on. We also switched from 6-2 to 5-1 offense so whichever setter is on that night can make some adjustments and see what works better.”Wright City will open the district tournament at Hermann on Oct. 19.

Wright City’s Sydnee Horneker hits a return during a game this season. The Wildcats won two out of three matches at Saturday’s Principia Tournament. Derrick Forsythe photo.


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