Match after match, the Montezuma-Cortez High School Panthers volleyball team flashes brilliance but rarely sustains it. As a result, wins this season have been few and far between.
LOSS TO MONTROSE
Opening up last week’s play on the road against Montrose on Friday, Oct. 18, the Panthers played well before falling to the Indians in four sets, 25-23, 13-25, 25-17, 25-18.
“Overall, it was a pretty decent match,” Panthers’ head coach Barbara Chappell said. “The girls played well; they just couldn’t get it done.”
Highlighting the loss to Montrose was the Panthers’ play during the second set, which, according to Chappell, was outstanding.
“Our defense was pretty good. Serving was big. Everyone played really well as a team,” Chappell said.
Pacing the Panthers against Montrose was junior Naomi Pennecoose, who led the team with 14 kills and three aces. Junior Beth Brown led the team in digs with 14, while sophomore Laurel Chappell led the team in assists with 35.
(Pennecoose) is a big part of our team,” said Chappell of her outside hitter. “You can’t count on one person to get the job done, though. Everyone has to contribute.”
DEFEAT VERSUS GRAND JUNCTION
Looking to get back on track after their loss to Montrose, the Panthers traveled to Grand Junction on Saturday, Oct. 19, to face off against Grand Junction High School.
Again, the Panthers played well at times, yet inconsistency doomed the team as it fell 25-20, 25-23, 21-25, 25-15.
Statistical leaders for the Panthers included Pennecoose (15 kills, three aces), sophomore Kristin Pierce (20 digs) and Chappell (36 assists).
“Pierce really turned the corner this weekend,” Chappell said. “She was aggressive, and she played great defense. Her confidence is high.”
Looking to get back on track, the Panthers next will travel to Durango on Tuesday, Oct. 22, to play the rival Durango Demons.
“We’re looking to win, and I do think that is a realistic goal for us,” Chappell said. “It’s a hard place to play over there, and the crowd is always crazy. We’re excited, though.”
imaclaren@cortezjournal.com
