Week 1 Upsets
The season kicked off this past week and as predicted, this season will likely be unlike any we have seen. That included a handful of upsets we were prepared for. Cotter vs Caledonia: Last year, Caledonia was undefeated…
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Continue ReadingThe season kicked off this past week and as predicted, this season will likely be unlike any we have seen. That included a handful of upsets we were prepared for.
Cotter vs Caledonia: Last year, Caledonia was undefeated in the Three Rivers conference with only a couple of opponents able to steal a set. This year is a different story. Caledonia’s lineup was lacking the power we are used to in the front row – as Lydia Lange Lydia Lange 6'2" | OH Caledonia | 2020 State MN and Alexis Simpson have since graduated. Cotter, came out with a dynamic offense led by the Hadaway sisters: Kelli and Jenny. While the play was somewhat chaotic, Cotter maintained the win by out working Caledonia.
Winona vs Rochester John Marshall: Last year, the two teams had nearly identical conference records, but last year when they faced off in the end of October, JM won easily in 3 sets. The Rockets have several returners from that line up: Chayse Paulson, Lilly Meister and Esme Decker but lacked the ability to finish at key moments. Meanwhile Winona was able to get into a rhythm despite losing nearly a dozen seniors. Winona served and passed better on serve receive. Libero, Mandy Duellman was brilliant in the back court allowing senior, setter Paige Grafton to execute a well rounded offense.
Goodhue vs Kenyon Wanamingo: KW looked flat and seemingly retired for the night after the first two, close sets 25-22 and 25-19. Meanwhile, Goodhue came out with strength, poise and consistent passing. Leading the way was Torrie Rehder who reached her 1,000 dig in the season opener with 19 for the night. They had a well balanced attack with several hitters contributing: Joslyn Carlson (10 kills) Arianna Thomforde (6 kills) and Madee Benda (6 kills). Goodhue finished the final set 25-9. KW needs to bounce back fast or the upsets will continue. They are young but have strong potential with setter Josie Quam and hitter, Tessa Erlandson Tessa Erlandson 5'8" | DS/L Kenyon-Wanamingo | 2023 State MN . They face Cannon Falls this coming week.
Eagan ‘ last=”]’ last=”] vs Lakeville North (3-1) – While this was a total surprise, the two rivals chose to set the tone for the year. Last year, Eagan ‘ last=”]’ last=”] advanced further at the state tournament presumably because they did not have face Wayzata until the championship match. The last time the two faced off was back on October 1, in a close 5 set thriller in which Eagan ‘ last=”]’ last=”] came out on top. The rivalry continues.