Overcoming Obstacles

This game was as exciting as it was stressful. The Tigers arrived at Overbrook a little early, but had a great warm up! It seemed like the team was keyed, calling for the ball, diving around, and moving their feet. It was great energy and awesome to watch! However, when the first set began it was clear that Overbrook was skilled, had great chemistry, and was ready to win. From the get go they were able to execute bump-set-spike offense and chase down shanked balls. Overbrook began building momentum early and the Tigers got caught on their heels. While the Tigers were able to find some success at the service line, they weren’t able to be consistent enough on defense to protect the serve. Along with some miscommunication the Tigers fell 15-25 in a tough first set. 

After that rough wake up call, the Tigers were able to use previous match experience and push for a come back. Overbrook had plenty of highlight plays and serves, but the Tigers were more aggressive on the service line and the Tigers even found themselves in longer rallies while utilizing more than one touch! Mahalia Moore kept the team energized with 5 aces early in the second set and towards the end of the second set Liliane Bayat-Mokhtari helped push the Tigers closer to victory by having a run of 7 successful serves! With the set super close the Tigers just needed one good break to get them to game point, and it showed up in the form of Alyvia Thompson. Alyvia made a great pass out of serve receive and earned a point to put the Tigers ahead 24-23! With the final serve the Tigers won 25-23! 

The Tigers maintained their momentum into the third set. Mahlaia was able to keep serving and put pressure on Overbrook’s defense and the Tigers defense held up well to keep Mahalia at the line! While both teams fought for an advantage, both ended up trading points back and forth. Neither team was able to get the final push to widen the gap. However, with the game on the line, the score was tied 13-13, Jeannie Jansen took a chance and spiked the ball on a high pass from Overbrook, and was able to get the point! In a big moment the Tigers finished the play aggressively and they were rewarded for it, winning the final set 15-13!   

It was a stressful game for some fans, but the Tigers seem to find themselves very comfortable in third set situations. With their backs against the wall they continue to find ways to win. This team can clearly finish games strong, so as they continue to grow their ability to start games strong will become the next step in their development. Let’s continue to support and cheer this fun young team as they take those next steps and gear up for the season tournament! Go Tigers!