Colony spikers edge Kenai

The visiting Knights pulled through for a Northern Lights Conference victory Thursday.

The Kards (0-5 NLC, 1-7 overall) lost 25-21, 20-25, 20-25, 25-23 and 15-9.

Despite the loss, Kardinals coach Tracie Beck saw many positive signs after a loss to Skyview on Tuesday.

"I felt like we made a step forward tonight, especially since our Tuesday game was just horrible," Beck said. "We had a great practice Wednesday, then we showed up determined to win.

"Even though in the end we came up short, I can live with that."

The coach said her team had reasons to fold early. The Kards lost the first game, then lost Kyla Whannell to a head injury in the second game when she was struck by a ball. Beck said she visited Whannell in the hospital later Thursday and said she was doing well, but she could be out for a while with a concussion.

"It was the best five games we've put together," Beck said. "I felt like we had chances to win."

Beck said it's the first time the Kards have gone to five games with a Valley squad in recent memory.

Kiana Harding had five aces and 13 kills, while Abby Beck had three aces and six kills. Dacia Shier added six kills, while Heidi Perkins had 31 digs.

Kenai hosts Wasilla at 5:30 p.m. today and Palmer at noon Saturday.

Information courtesy of the Peninsula Clarion.