BEAVER LOCAL SUFFERS FIRST SETBACK

EAST LIVERPOOL, OH- Beaver Local made to long trip on Saturday to Claymont in what could be a preview of a future district matchup between two formidable programs.  It was on this day the Mustangs showed their might by handing the Beavers their first loss of the season in four sets 25-20, 25-23, 22-25, 25-12.

After a slow start in the first set, the Beavers regained form by taking the Mustangs to the end in the second before claiming the third set.  Looking to capitalize off a third set win, the Beavers just could not regain the momentum falling to the Mustangs in the fourth and final set.  Head Coach Sarah Lowe knew going in it was going to be tough a match “Today was a solid matchup between two seasoned teams each led by eight seniors and strong middle offenses”.   The middle offense has been strong for the Beavers all season and Saturday was no different drawing triple blocking attempts by Claymont.

Grace Hill led the Beavers with 17 kills and 4 blocks, teammate Elizabeth Kolkowski contributed 10 kills and 2 blocks.  Emma Joseph helped set up the middle offense with 16 assists to go along with 8 digs.    Brooke Talbot once again contributed mightily adding 5 kills, 19 assists, 14 digs, 2 blocks.  Claymont’s hitters kept the Beavers back row busy all day.  Kodi Kinsey added a team high 21 digs, Leah Riccardo contributed 12 digs as well for the Beavers.  Riccardo used the loss as a learning experience for the future ‘I think this game was a step in the right direction, both teams competed well, I hope we see them again in the postseason”.

The schedule remains tough for the Beavers  (5-1) as they return home Wednesday hosting Hubbard.

*Story contributed by Chris Sigler