September 9th is not exactly the time to expect a crucial matchup between two powerhouse programs on the volleyball court. But that was exactly what developed at a packed Metheny Fieldhouse at Geneva College Wednesday night in Geneva’s Presidents’ Athletic Conference opener. The early - but critical - match between Geneva and Bethany went in Geneva’s favor as the Golden Tornadoes defeated the Bison 3-1 (25-22, 21-25, 25-17, 28-26). Geneva improved to 5-1 overall.
“It’s unfortunate that two top teams in the PAC had to play this early in the season,” said co-head coach Curt Conser. “This early in the season, both teams are still inconsistent.
“Both teams are playing good volleyball but neither are where they will be by the end or middle of the season.”
Olivia Test (Negley, OH/Heartland Christian) led the Golden Tornadoes with a team-high 16 kills, earning an impressive .520 hitting percentage.
“Our offense really came alive in set four,” Conser said. “Olivia hit six for seven in the set and (Erica) Hughes finished the match with four straight kills. (Rachel) Tuck also played controlled and smart.
“In addition, we had some great hustle plays and kept the errors down. On defense, McKala (King) made some key digs in the fourth set, too.”
McKala King (Uniontown, OH/Lake) recorded a team high of 18 digs and Gabrielle Dickson (Brookfield, OH/Kennedy Catholic) also reached double digits with 15. On offense, Dickson found her rhythm on the service line with five service aces.
Marissa Naples (Cortland, OH/Lakeview) and Rachel Netherland (Aliquippa, PA/Central Valley) split the setting task. Netherland tallied 25, Naples 19.
“Wendy and I felt like we had a good game plan and the team did a good job of executing it,” Conser said.
This weekend the Golden Tornadoes will play four matches at the Penn State Behrend Tournament.
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