Central Mountain Edges Williamsport in Four Sets

By Tom Elling

MILL HALL— Central Mountain remained unbeaten in District 6 play Tuesday night, defeating Williamsport in a hard-fought four-set volleyball match, 26-24, 25-15, 19-25, 26-24.

The Lady Wildcats improved to 11-0 in the district standings and 33-7 overall. Williamsport, coached by Patti Jones, slipped to 10-3.

Central Mountain’s attack was powered by outside hitters Gabby Beaubrun and Kylie Rauch, who combined for numerous kills throughout the night. But head coach Chipp McCann stressed it was a collective effort.

“It was a total team effort. Everyone contributed,” McCann said.

Setter Chloe Confer directed the offense with crisp sets and timely assists, while Alana Ingram, Lilly Downing, and Sophia Kelley provided steady play at the net and in the back row with digs and blocks.

The match featured momentum swings throughout. Central Mountain captured the first two sets, using strong serving runs and aggressive net play. Williamsport responded in the third with a 25-19 win, capitalizing on Wildcat errors and consistent defense.

McCann acknowledged the inconsistency.

“We had our ups and downs, highs and lows, and Williamsport brought it to us,” the third-year coach said. “They are an excellent team and well-coached. I was a little disappointed that we took our foot off the gas in the last two sets.”

The fourth set proved decisive. Williamsport led 23-21 before Central Mountain stormed back with five of the final six points. Rauch sealed the match with a kill down the line.

“Hats off to Williamsport. They put pressure on us,” McCann said. “I think the last set will really help us become a better team.”