With the hustle and bustle of football season getting underway, it’s easy for the Marion County volleyball teams to get swept under the rug.
But East Marion (4-1) is refusing to allow that to become a reality as the Eagles continue to show why they were one of the best teams in the state last season.
East Marion
The Eagles were dominant Aug. 15 on their home court, outscoring Richton 75-19 (25-3, 25-9, 25-7) in a 3-0 sweep.
In most lopsided matches, it’s the attacking that shines brightest on the stat sheet, but East Marion was particularly dominant serving the ball with 25 aces, highlighted by Tytianna Porter’s 11. Porter and Brittany Dearman each had just three kills to lead the Eagles.
While the Eagles weren’t as dominant in last Thursday’s home match against Jefferson Davis County, they still rallied for a 3-0 sweep, 25-20, 25-9 and 25-17.
Porter stepped up in a big way taking over for the injured Amber Willis, delivering with an eye-popping 16 kills against the Jaguars. Raqquiya Haynes led the Eagles with four aces, while Farae Jackson and Porter had three. Hope Cook (10 assists) and Jackson (seven assists) took turns setting up the Eagles offensive attack.
The Eagles hosted Magee Tuesday night, but results were not available at press time. They will remain at home Thursday night for a big test, a 6 p.m. showdown against Hattiesburg.
Columbia
Columbia (2-5) struggled Aug. 15 against Hattiesburg as the Wildcats were swept 3-0 (25-18, 25-15 and 25-21).
Abby Morris led the Wildcats with four kills, while Trena Tran and Sadie Willis each had three. Morris and Tran each had nine digs, while Willis and Elizabeth Sanford each had eight. Morris also led Columbia with four aces, while Tran had nine assists.
Things didn’t get much better for the Wildcats last Thursday night on the road against Seminary, losing 3-1. The Wildcats dropped the first two sets 25-8, won the third 25-14 before falling in the final frame 25-17.
Columbia hosted Sumrall Tuesday night, but results were not available at press time. The Wildcats will return to their home court Thursday night against Sacred Heart with first serve scheduled for 7 p.m.
West Marion
West Marion was off the past week, last playing Aug. 14 in a 3-0 loss to Seminary. The Trojans return to the floor Thursday night at home against North Forrest with first serve at 6 p.m.
Pictured Above: Lauren Hill spikes the ball over the net. | Photo by Mark Rogers
