Over the past couple of weeks, East Marion (16-1, 6-0) has asserted itself as the team to beat in Class 1A/3A Region 7, while Columbia (7-13, 3-3) and West Marion (5-9, 2-4) are trying to keep pace with Salem (12-4, 4-1) for the coveted second spot in the district standings.
East Marion
The Eagles continued their dominance with 3-0 sweeps of Tylertown and Columbia last week, which puts them in prime position to take the district crown for the second consecutive year.
On the road Sept. 19 at Tylertown, the Eagles were consistent all match, winning 25-13, 25-11 and 25-13. Head coach Mandell Echols let both his varsity and junior varsity get a lot of work in the win. Dontajha Stepney led the Eagles attack with seven kills, while the Eagles served 23 aces as a team.
At home last Thursday night, the Eagles were tested by Columbia but ultimately won 25-14, 25-22 and
25-10. Tytianna Porter was dominant with 15 kills and six aces, while Farae Jackson led the team 13 assists and seven digs.
The Eagles had a crucial match against Salem Tuesday night, but results were unavailable at press time. They will return to the court Thursday on the road at West Marion.
Columbia
Needing a big win Sept. 19 at West Marion following a loss to Salem, the Wildcats responded with a strong 3-1 showing over the Trojans.
The Wildcats won 25-12, 18-25, 25-18 and 25-20, while Lauren Hill paced the offense with 11 kills. Trena Tran led the team with 11 digs and eight aces for Columbia.
However, Columbia ran into buzzsaw last Thursday on the road against East Marion, falling two games back on Salem in the district standings.
The Wildcats have a chance to make up some ground, playing Tylertown Tuesday (results unavailable) before a road match Thursday at Amite County.
West Marion
The Trojans had a rough week last week with losses to Columbia and Salem, dropping them to fourth in the district standings.
The Trojans suffered a 3-1 loss to Columbia Sept. 19 and were swept 3-0 by Salem last Thursday.
For the Trojans to have a chance at making the playoffs, they may need to win out the rest of the way.
They played Amite County Tuesday night (results unavailable) before a crucial home match Thursday against East Marion.
First serve is at 6 p.m.
Pictured Above: Brittany Dearman spikes the ball over the net. | Photo by Joshua Campbell
