The Mt. Zion Braves continued their strong stretch of volleyball Thursday night, earning a 25-14, 25-20 straight-set victory over the Monticello Sages.
Mt. Zion entered the matchup with momentum after defeating Mattoon in two sets earlier in the week, while Monticello was coming off its own straight-set victory over Clinton on Tuesday. With both teams looking to build on recent success, the Braves ultimately proved to be the stronger side Thursday.
Mt. Zion established control in the opening set. The Braves found separation and kept Monticello from putting together the sustained run it needed to close the gap. Mt. Zion went on to take the first set 25-14, putting the Sages in a must-win situation.
Monticello responded with a much stronger effort in the second.
Rather than allowing Mt. Zion to pull away again, the Sages remained within striking distance and made the Braves work to finish the match. Monticello’s improved play turned the second set into a more competitive battle, but Mt. Zion remained composed down the stretch and secured the final points for a 25-20 victory.
For the Sages, Emma Lawhead continued to provide a steady presence defensively. The junior libero finished with 10 digs, giving Monticello an important presence in the back row. Senior setter Emma Arnold recorded six assists while helping direct the Sages’ offense.
Despite the loss, Monticello has put together several strong performances recently. The Sages defeated Clinton 25-16, 25-17 earlier in the week, with Lawhead also recording 10 digs in that victory. Thursday’s result moved Monticello to 6-8 on the season.
For Mt. Zion, the victory continued an impressive run. The Braves entered Thursday at 10-5 after their sweep of Mattoon and had won back-to-back matches coming into the night. Against Monticello, they carried that momentum forward with another two-set performance.
While the opening set belonged firmly to Mt. Zion, Monticello’s response in the second made the Braves earn the sweep. In the end, Mt. Zion was able to withstand the Sages’ push and finish the night without allowing the match to reach a deciding third set.
Monticello will look to rebound when the Sages travel to Sullivan on Monday.
FINAL: Mt. Zion def. Monticello, 2-0
Set 1: Mt. Zion 25, Monticello 14
Set 2: Mt. Zion 25, Monticello 20
