Southeastern's strong net play and service game was too much for Huntington in a battle of SVC Volleyball unbeaten teams, with the Panthers prevailing in straight sets, (25-19, 25-16, 25-13).
The win puts Southeastern in sole possession of first place at (5-0), while Huntington and Unioto are one match back at (4-1). The Shermans keep pace by winning at Adena, (19-25, 25-15, 25-22, 28-26).
After an early 6-2 lead by the Huntsmen in Set 1, the Panthers pulled close until taking the lead for good at 14-12. SE went on to win that set 25-19.
Set 2 saw the Panthers grab an early 5-1 lead, but Huntington came to life with their own attack and scrappy defense to tie to score at 6-6. From there, Southeastern took control en-route to the 25-16 win and a (2-0) lead in the match.
Huntington had a 3-2 lead and were even at 4-4, before Southeastern rolled to a 25-13 victory for the match sweep at (3-0). Southeastern, who is ranked #6 in the Division 3 State Coaches Poll, are unbeaten for for their overall record of (8-0). The loss for Huntington was only their second of the season and first in the conference.
Stat leaders for Southeastern were Jess Bolte with 17 kills, Skylar Hice added 10 and Lindsey Skeens had five kills to go with four blocks. Lauren Goebel and Hannah Lougheed had 3 aces. Carissa Wheeler and Lexi Lockwood each had 2 aces. Goebel had 38 assists.
Huntington was led by Riley Black with 8 kills and Miranda McCloskey with 7.
Southeastern hosts Unioto in another key SVC match-up on September 18th. The Shermans are ranked 8th in Division 2 of the State Volleyball Coaches Poll.
Southeastern Coach Jimmy Hutton talked with WKKJ Sports Director Mike Smith after the winning match. Hear the podcast below...