Stevensville defeated Ronan, 25-16, 25-18l 25-20. Allyah Anderson led a balanced attack by the Yellowjackets against Ronan on Thursday. The junior had six kills as did Jessie Newman. The Lady ‘Jackets were strong at the net with foreign exchange student Maddalena Margini at 6’2” and , freshman transfer Daphane Engel, Anderson and Newman putting up a solid front.
Cassie Kopsa is the heart of the team with her back row play and leadership. She served up 10 points in a row to give the Lady ‘Jackets a strong start in the first game.
The second game was more of a point-by-point battle. Ronan pulled ahead and was gaining momentum when Margini slammed down a kill. A huge roar went up from the student section and that was followed by another kill. Although coach Paulson said she sometimes has a difficult time communicating with Margini, they found a way to communicate and understand what needed to be done.
The third game was similar to the second with Ronan stepping out to an early lead. Kopsa had the sera with the game tied at 20 all. She served up five points including two aces to seal the win and the match.
Stevensville won, 25-16, 25-18, 25-20
Aliyah Anderson 6, Jessie Newman 6, Blocks 8 – Aliyah Anderson 4, Jessie Newman 2, Digs – 37 – Cassie Kopsa 18, Daphne Engel 5; Assists 25 – Daphne Engel 11, Madi Weber 12. Aces – 12, Aliyah Anderson 5, Cassi Kopsa 3.