Friday night saw big action between two programs that historically play tight games with each other. Last year in 2021, Sterling beat Crosby in a non-district match in five tough sets. The Cougars and Rangers are now grouped in the…
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Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log inFriday night saw big action between two programs that historically play tight games with each other. Last year in 2021, Sterling beat Crosby in a non-district match in five tough sets. The Cougars and Rangers are now grouped in the same district, and Crosby won the first round in another five sets. Last night, Sterling won with vengeance to break the five-set pattern, and more importantly, claimed an important win for playoff seedings. Both programs have tough matches ahead of them as district wraps up.
Below are standouts from last night’s match.
Joseph is undoubtedly one of the top middles in the district, however, she shined from the left in this match. Out of serve receive, she was the first option and executed repeatedly to ignite fire for Sterling. Although there was difficult setter/hitter connection in the middle, her outside swings helped the squad to a three-set win. Even sweeter, she earned game point with a solo block to seal the victory.
Anderson is a new mention for Crosby, and earns recognition with her setting decisions. She did an excellent job finding her senior middle, Victoria Grace, and executing a handful of big plays to give Crosby early leads. Establishing middles quickly can be critical for momentum, and Anderson took full advantage.
As a six-rotation outside, Barger usually doesn’t leave the court and is fed the majority of sets to make a big play. Her abilities are significant, so she is a primary target for opponents and the center of most game plans. Because she’s played a fair share of open level club seasons, Barger has grown to handle these pressures well.
Another heavy hitter, Valt earns a spot in this recap. Like Barger, she’s a six-rotation asset involved in almost every point either back row or front row. As usual, she had several stunning swings, but her serve receive was impressive this night. Valt tracks quickly to stay behind the ball and finishes with solid shoulders to target, resulting in smooth, lower passes.
