Southside-Landon defeated Dupont in a two set victory. The Lady Lions arrived at the Dragon’s lair exhibiting to all that they are more than just the Queens of the jungle, but the Southside as well. Landon’s first year Coach Rayanna Johnson said, ” We have a big team and tonight I put all of my girls in. They were at new positions and played a fantastic game. Our team focused on chemistry, being one , playing together and having a good time”.
The Pride of Lady Lions gathered quietly outside of the Dragon’s gym as they stalked out their prey before the game. Dupont’s newly formed team which consisted of only one returner accepted the home court challenge. The first set began as Landon’s Kennedy Waymer sent over the first serve scoring the first point. Waymer’s failed second serve led to Dupont’s first point and Mizgabeth Ledesma heading off the serve. Ledesma’s instant kill and two consecutive scored points taunted the Lady Lions defense as the Lady Dragons led the first set 3-1. Both teams would then exchange point for point until Landon’s Isabella Kennedy changed the game dynamics. Kennedy sent out eight successful serves causing Landon to take over the lead by 12-4. Dupont fought back with Myla Lundy at serve. Her efforts were teamed up with the speed and assertiveness of Ledesma at the net to give the Lady Lions the game that they least expected. Incidentally, Piper Kalil and Ella Scherkenbach continued to boost Landon’s offense ending the first set 25-21, Landon.
The second set began with Ledesma at serve for the Lady Dragons. Landon’s defense consisting of Giana Abbott and Sydney Roundtree quickly blocked Dupont’s attempt for a down pour of points . Landon’s ball possession and point gain opened the door to take over the lead 5-2. The Lady Lions reign would be short lived as Dupont’s Leah Hughes and Zung Par fought off their opponent with blocks and passes to keep the team right on their opponents paws. Both teams would later experience a 12-12 tie. Dycia Morman’s strong and strategic serves kept the Lady Dragon’s offense on the move as she sent over consecutive plays to earn four points. A full court showdown between the Lady Lions and the Lady Dragons gave the fans a nail biting and unanticipated second set. Dupont closed in the gap to trail Landon by a mere one to two points as Alexa Sanchez led with multiple successful serves. As Landon led 24-23, Sanchez’s served the ball as onlookers looked on. Landon’s Ballard game winning spike would close out the game 25-23. Landon.
Dupont will move on to face Mandarin Middle. Landon will advance to compete against Darnell Cookman. Either way both teams showed that they are ready and willing to accept the call to challenge in volleyball. As of now, the Lady Lions rule the Southside.
