The Philomath High School volleyball team posted its first victory of the season with a 28-26, 25-16, 25-15 win over visiting Warrenton.
The Warriors (1-1) got into the win column after a frustrating five-set marathon loss last week at Crescent Valley, last season’s 5A runner-up.
Warrenton, a 3A school that opened its season with a victory and then a split in a home tournament, pushed Philomath hard in the opening set.
“We played a well-coached, defensively impressive Warrenton team that didn’t give up,” PHS coach Whitney Thomas said. “They scrambled well defensively and it took us a while to get rolling and warmed up.”
Thomas said she saw definitive signs of improvement with her team’s attack.
“We were able to work on our offensive more tonight and it worked well and has definitely improved,” she said. “I’m excited to see the team progress this season.”
Senior Shaylee May had a team-high 14 kills and five ace serves. Senior Taylor Hudson was also strong at the net with eight kills. Senior setter Avery Smith finished with 33 assists.
Philomath will play at home again Thursday with a 6 p.m. match against Marist Catholic. The Spartans bring a 4-1 record into the matchup.
Philomath 3, Warrenton 0
Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Philomath HS
| Warrenton (2-2) | 26 | 16 | 15 |
| Philomath (1-1) | 28 | 25 | 25 |