Drummond turns slow start into victory at Darby

DARBY – The Lady Trojans survived a slow start and opening game loss, rallying to beat the Tigers in Darby Thursday night 22-25, 25-16, 25-16, 25-13. The victory leaves Drummond with a spotless 3-0 mark as thjey head into the Labor Day holiday.

“Walking into a gym and learning to play with new people on the other side of the net is definitely an experience now that we are back in (District) 13C,” said DHS Head Coach Brooks Phillips. “We don't have the knowledge of our opponents that we are used to having. The girls have had a long week starting with a great senior night Saturday, hard fought game with our neighbors to the south on Tuesday, and then a long bus ride to Darby today. It took us a while to get going but this team never gives up.

Phillips also noted the very different style of play with the COVID-19 restrictions and variations put on the game itself. “It's a different game with lots of interruptions to sanitize the ball, the kids struggling to hear their teammate's cheering under the masks and their coach's direction and encouragement. It's a season of firsts (from seeing our opponents for the first time for this group of girls to all the new COVID protocols) and this team is handling it very well.”

After the opening loss, Drummond rallied to spread the wealth offensively and vary its attack. Hannah Bradshaw was the top striker at the net with six kills, while teammates Deana Parke and Holly Hauptman each had five. Gracie Weaver was right behind with four and five digs. Sydney Phillips was tops in that latter category with seven. Weaver and Jesse Struna each had five service aces.

“Our team is just showing they are well rounded and can all hit, dig, and serve,” added Phillips. “(It just) depends on the night who is going to step up where.”

Next up on the docket for Drummond is another road game at Lincoln Sept. 10.

The Lady Trojan JV swept Darby 25-21, 25-16, 15-9.