Wasilla takes Colony in three

The veteran Warriors had their hands full against Colony Tuesday night, but kept their composure to take three straight games on home court at Wasilla.

Wasilla's ability to set up and execute great shots pushed the team to victory in all three games.

From the onset of the match, a battle ensued to establish dominance at the net. Wasilla's Lacey Adcock and Colony's Stephanie Deml created huge barriers by continually blocking shots and delivering punishing hits that could not be received. Adcock had 17 kills in the match while Deml finished with 13.

The first game started evenly, with each team exchanging blows resulting in small increments of points. Wasilla then began a rally to jump out to a 12-6 lead. Colony chipped in three more points but dropped the first game 15-9.

Colony regrouped in the second game and jumped out to a quick 9-1 lead. Deml set the tone early with a powerful spike that surprised everyone. Instead of setting the ball on Colony's second touch, Deml crushed the ball over the net before Wasilla players could respond.

Wasilla charged back in the game with great serves and took control of the tempo with methodical setting and heavy hitting. Wasilla rolled on to win the second game 15-9.

"We have smart hitters who find holes," said Wasilla coach Cindy Plano. "They just keep going."

As the third game got under way, Wasilla's service became stronger. Miranda Hocker's powerful serve shut down Colony, keeping it off balance and unable to mount a return. Hocker served seven aces in the match. Wasilla continued its powerful hitting while mounting a 12-3 lead, finding holes on Colony's court.

Colony refused to quit and started a rally, but the score was too far out of reach as Wasilla finished the game and match by a third game score of 15-6.

Wasilla's Alayna Morgan led all setters with 24 assists. Colony's Zeenie Preston contributed 21 assists.

"Wasilla never lets the ball hit the floor," said Colony coach Bryce Ray. "The ball always comes back, we couldn't stop it tonight."

Palmer sweeps East

Palmer traveled to East Saturday and swept three games, with scores of 15-10, 15-9, and 15-4.

Coach Steve Reynolds said great serving and defense were key to winning the match.

Alissa Morino served 100 percent on 21 serves and Emily Sakis contributed 12 kills in the match.

Amy Bowen and Bree Johnson both had 14 digs in the match to keep the ball in play and set up a return. Johnson also kicked in 25 assists.