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Eagles downed in straight sets at Vikings
WEST TERRE HAUTE -- South Putnam's volleyball team may have adopt a new mascot this year. Despite losing 3-0 to host West Vigo, the Eagles fought like pit bulls to the very end of game three.
West Vigo won the first two games 25-15, 25-13 before South Putnam dug in, falling 25-22 in game three.
"I am super proud of the girls for coming back (in game three). They got off to a really slow start, they were a little timid, they weren't communicating super well, but they turned it around. They hung in there and as each game progressed they got better," first-year South Putnam coach Deanna Long said.
South Putnam's statistical leaders were pretty spread out. Emily Dobson and Kenzie Trisler led the Eagles in kills, each with only four. Setter Emily Clark passed out 23 assists and Katie McHugh 18.
West Vigo, with a pair of six-footers on the court at all times, caused the Eagles problems they could not prepare for in practice. Despite Carey Tanner's 11 digs and Kelly Hayden's nine, the Eagles struggled with passing to the setter.
"Problems begin with good coverage. We weren't used to such good hitters. Knowing how quickly to get to a coverage position is something they adjust to (through the match)," Long said.
Long was surprised the Eagles didn't serve better. South Putnam charts showed 12 service errors.
"We were really rocky to start off serving. In our scrimmage (with Turkey Run) we served awesome. We didn't hardly miss a serve. We were over 90 percent and tonight we struggled a little bit with our serving," Long said.
In game three, the Eagles figuratively threw themselves at the ball. If there was air under it, the Eagles got a hand, finger or elbow on the ball to keep plays going.
South took an early 7-4 lead. After West Vigo tied the score 7-7, Emily Dobson serviced an ace that put the Eagles up 10-8. The score was tied at 12-12 and 13-13 before the Vikings slipped out to a 16-13 edge.
An ace by McHugh tied the score 18-18. That was the last tie. The Vikings took the lead for good on two errors by the Eagles.
In JV action, West Vigo won 25-17, 25-12.
South Putnam returns to action Thursday at Clay City.
At West Vigo
South Putnam............15 13 22
West Vigo..................25 25 25
Highlights: For South Putnam, Emily Clark passed out 23 assists and Katie McHugh 18 while Emily Dobson and Kenzie Trisler each had four kills. Carey Tanner had 11 digs and Kelly Hayden nine.
JV game: West Vigo won 2-0.
Next game: On Thursday, South Putnam (0-1) plays Clay City.