By Pat Delaney
With dominant net play and big scoring runs, the Patrick County Lady Cougars swept North Stokes in three sets on October 6, winning 25-13, 25-7, and 25-15
After falling behind 0-2, the Lady Cougars quickly took the lead with a 5-0 run. Increasing their lead throughout the set, the Lady Cougars finished strong, winning 25-13.
In the second set, Patrick County jumped to the early lead and never allowed North Stokes any momentum. An 11-2 Lady Cougar run gave them a 14-4 lead that they would extend to 18 by the end of the set. Controlling play at the net, the Lady Cougars took the second set, 25-7.
It was North Stokes who sprinted out to the early lead in the third set, taking the first six points of the set, and leading 15-11 with much improved play. Patrick County scored the next four points, tying the match at 15 all, then did not allow another North Stokes point, closing the set with a 14-0 run, and the 25-15 set win.
Throughout the match, the Lady Cougars controlled play at the net, putting away many balls at the net and blocking shots. “That’s something that we struggle with from time to time, so it was really nice to see that tonight,” said Lady Cougar head coach Heidi Moore.
Brooke Collins had 15 assists and 5 aces on the night. Jayden Calahan had 10 kills, Lauren Hazelwood had 7 aces and 7 digs, while Brooklyn Barner and Sydney Tatum had 7 kills each.
With the win, the Lady Cougars improve to 9-4 on the season.
