By Brian Hoffman
The Salem High volleyball team will be at Hidden Valley tonight for a match with a strong Titan team. The Spartans lost to the Titans the first time around but are much improved in recent weeks, including turning the tables on Patrick Henry last week.
Salem beat the Patriots last Thursday in Salem in three sets, 26-24, 25-12 and 25-19 after losing to PH in the first meeting in four. Ella Walker had six kills and six blocks, Reese Redford had seven digs and 12 blocks and Makenzie Board had 13 assists.
“Our team has suffered some injuries throughout the season that changed our initial plan,” said Spartan coach Beth Denton. “These injuries have pushed other players to learn new responsibilities and positions and this has ultimately made our team stronger. The growth of this team has happened weekly in practices. Every day we work to build connections between our setters and hitters to run a powerful offense, close our blocks, and run a solid defense.”
The Spartans hosted a strong Christiansburg team on Tuesday and lost in four sets. The Spartans won the first set, 25-22, but the Demons rallied to win the next three, 25-16, 25-21 and 26-24. Kai Bowen had 10 kills, Myah Crews had 12 digs and Redford had 18 digs, nine kills and a pair of aces.
With the loss the Spartans dropped to 10-6 overall and 2-6 in the district. Next week Salem is at Blacksburg Tuesday and home to Cave Spring a week from tonight.
“Our motto all season has been ‘keep your eyes on November’ and we are excited about how things are progressing,” said Denton.
