By: Tylar Pomroy
PHILADELPHIA - On Tuesday, Oct. 16 the Archbishop Carroll varsity volleyball team traveled to St. Hubert Catholic High School where they fought to keep their winning streak intact. The Patriots were able to do just that with a 3-0 win over the Bambies who had been fighting to secure a better position within the Philadelphia Catholic League.
Archbishop Carroll dominated from the very first set as the team was able to establish rhythm and consistency early on. Finishing the first set with a score of 25-12 set the tone for the rest of the match as they would continue to roll over St. Hubert by a score of 25-17 through the second.
Carroll head coach Brian McCann talked about how they were able to keep the momentum going and sweep the opponent through three sets.
“Ball control and serving the ball really set us apart. Then we ran the plays needed to get our offense in the right situation through each serve,” said McCann.
When asked about how he would prepare for the following PCL matchup against Lansdale Catholic McCann signified the importance of their non-conference game with Garnet Valley High School.
“We play a big-time match tomorrow night against Garnet Valley that will give us the warm up we need to keep things going in preparation for our last game of the regular season,” said McCann.
Archbishop Carroll senior Melanie Cotes-Rivera speaks on how the team has been able to maintain success moving forward. Despite the disappointing loss after a third and final set score of 25-18 where it looked like the Bambies would have the opportunity to rally themselves back into the match, the St. Hubert Bambies are still in line for a PCL playoff run.
St. Hubert captains Brenna Carley and Emily Mahalis were optimistic about their first playoff game and talked about improving communication.
“After today I think we know we have to talk more and improve communication, even though it’s late in the season we still have to work on it in order to win,” said Carley.
While Archbishop Carroll has a position at the top of the Philadelphia Catholic League fighting for the first seed with Cardinal O’Hara, St. Hubert will have to perform well against both Bishop McDevitt if they want to be considered a playoff contender moving forward.