The Salem High volleyball team picked up their first win Monday when the Spartans defeated William Byrd. The Salem girls took a three-set win in Vinton, 26-24, 25-14 and 25-23.

The Salem girls came through in the clutch, as they trailed 23-21 in both the first and third sets before pulling them out. The Spartans played very well in dominating the second set.

“We need to have a more consistent level of play,” said coach Russ Danstrom. “If we played in all three sets like we did in the second set we’d be right where we need to be.”

Telia Harris led Salem with eight kills and six digs while Janae Blakeney had seven kills, five digs and four aces. Maddie Bowman had 10 assists and three kills, including the kill that ended the match in the third set.

Other standouts included Caroline Hagy with 11 assists and no errors to go with three aces, and Tori Clinevell had three kills and nine digs.  Alex Abbott had three blocks and Grace Hedge had two blocks and a couple kills.

Last Thursday in Daleville the Spartans struggled against a strong Lord Botetourt team. The Cavs won 25-9, 25-21 and 25-11, and again the second set was the one where Salem played best.

“We played well in the second game, but overall we didn’t execute our plan,” said Danstrom.

Blakeney had 11 kills and 12 digs in this one while Harris had nine kills and 10 digs. Danstrom credited Clinevell for a great game passing the ball while Hagy and Bowman combined for 23 assists.

Now 1-2, Salem will be back in action tonight for a match in Lynchburg with Liberty Christian Academy. The Spartans are then off until a week from tonight when they host Northside.