Dominating the net through most of the match, Heron Lake-Okabena / Fulda prevailed in four sets over Murray County Central in varsity volleyball action at Fulda last Tuesday evening, October 1.
The visiting Rebels won the third set, but the Coyotes dominated the fourth and claimed the Red Rock Conference victory by scores of 25-21-25-12, 22-25 and 25-12.
“We were very dominant at the net and behind the serving line,” said HLOF head coach Trista Rhubee. “In the third set it just felt like we couldn’t establish a lead and we made untimely mistakes that would kill any sort of momentum. But then we came out in the fourth set with guns blazing and ready to get the job done.”
The four-set triumph improved the Coyotes to 5-1 In the conference and to 11-8 for the season.
Statistically, junior hitters Meakin Bang (14 digs) and Hailey Liepoold each smacked 15 kills to lead the Coyotes at the net, while senior middle hitter Maddie Ruesch contributed up front with four ace blocks. Sophomore Elly Bang distributed 36 set assists as the Coyotes effectively mixed up their attacks and were especially impressive in sets two and four, winning both by 13-point spreads.
Junior libero Grace Kilian played well in the back row (team leading 31 digs) and was perfect at the serving line (19-of-19) with a pair of aces. Eighth-grader Sam Untiedt did a bit of everything for the Coyotes as she came through with seven kills, four blocks, 14 digs and was 20-of-22 serving with two aces.
