ALBANY, Or. — Lower Columbia (1-1, 0-0) fell to Linn-Benton (4-1, 0-0) in straight sets, with scores of 25-12, 25-16, 25-21. The Red Devils recorded 22 kills and 32 digs in the match.
Lower Columbia began the first set with a strong start, taking an early 1-0 lead with a kill by
Chesney Schultz, assisted by
Karissa Otterstetter. However, Linn-Benton quickly responded, capitalizing on several attack errors by LCC, including those by
Kendall Humphrey, to gain an 11-8 advantage. Linn-Benton extended its lead with a series of service aces, notably two consecutive by Avery Axmaker, bringing the score to 20-11. Despite a kill by
Lauretta Vasi-Tauki'uvea, Linn-Benton maintained momentum and sealed the set with a 25-12 victory, concluding with an attack error by Vasi-Tauki'uvea.
The second set saw Linn-Benton establish dominance early with a series of points that pushed it to a 5-0 lead, capitalizing on errors from Lower Columbia. Linn-Benton continued to capitalize on attack errors and strong plays, such as a kill by Emma Yenchik, to maintain a significant lead. Lower Columbia attempted a comeback with a four-point run, featuring a kill and a service ace from
Kendal Dean, narrowing the gap to 16-11. However, Linn-Benton responded promptly, regaining control and eventually closing the set at 25-16, with Sydney Brink securing the final point on a kill from Klaire Bitter's assist.
In the third set, Lower Columbia initially took charge with a 3-0 lead, highlighted by kills from
Anika Plowman and
Kendall Humphrey. Linn-Benton responded steadily, with Ryland Minnick's kill tying the score at 8-8. The momentum shifted as Linn-Benton capitalized on Lower Columbia's errors, allowing it to pull ahead to a 16-14 lead. Despite a close contest, Linn-Benton sustained its advantage, with Lana Gillas delivering the decisive kill, clinching the set 25-21. The victory was sealed after an attack error from Humphrey ended the set.
Humphrey led the Red Devils with eight kills and two aces, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Otterstetter posted a team-high 11 assists while also recording eight digs, showcasing her versatility on the court. Schultz added five kills and one ace, bolstering the team's scoring. Plowman contributed three kills and one block assist, rounding out the team's performance.
Devils home opener is Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 6 pm vs the Chemeketa Storm. Join us at Myklebust Gymnasium and get loud for your Red Devils.
