Central Mountain Extends Streak- Nets Win over BEA
By Tom Elling
MILL HALL- Two outstanding girls’ volleyball teams put their skills on display at the Central Mountain High School gymnasium. Home-standing Central Mountain had a six-game win streak on the line and BEA came in unbeaten (3-0) and, in fact, didn’t lose a single set to their previous opponents. Both teams exuded confidence as they warmed up.
It was an athletic exhibition from the very first serve. Every set was a see-saw battle and kept the raucous crowd involved. Bald Eagle Area took the first set 25-22. All night long their wing players delivered. Leah Bryan was especially effective for a talent-laden Lady Eagle line-up.
The Lady Wildcats found their footing in the second set, scoring a fairly dominant 25-19 win. They were able to neutralize the Eagle attack with key blocks and several monstrous kills. Frontliners, Gabby Beaubrun and Kylie Rauch did most of the damage but Reese Walizer, Katelyn Bowman performed extremely well.
With the sets even at one apiece, the final two sets became a back-and-forth battle. Central Mountain went on top with a 25-22 victory. Sophia Hardy was sharp with her services. Ellen Banfill and Reese Walizer also played key roles. BEA received strong play from Olivia Taylor and Emily Silvis.
In the fourth set, it was as fierce as any volleyball game one may have witnessed, The teams’ performed admirably under pressure. BEA got to 20-points and looked to be in the driver’s seat, but CM was able to reach down and capture a thrilling 26-24 set to end the night with a 3-1 win. Chloe Confer provided a key performance as she ‘saved’ what looked to be sure points for BEA.
Libero Reese Walizer had earlier played in a golf contest vs Jersey Shore, The rivalry contest went extra hole to break the tie with CM slipping by the Bulldogs.
Central Mountain hosts Hughesville Tuesday night and Lewisburg on Thursday in a busy week at the net. BEA will take on Hollidaysburg on Tuesday and they travel to Richland on Thursday.
BEA first year coach Taylor Giedroc and veteran CM coach Chipp McMann both look to go deep in the District 6 championships. CM competes at the 3A level, while BEA is the top-ranked in Class 2A.
The CM JV may have inspired the varsity with an exciting closure – a 27-25 victory.
