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Sidney opens at home

Sidney overcame a slow start to notch a 3-1 match win over Chase County in its first home volleyball match Tuesday.

Chase County "hit 'em where they ain't," early in the match, taking a 24-13 lead before the Lady Raiders mounted a late rally.

Sidney fought back to within four points, 24-20, before Chase county put away the first set.

A see-saw battle developed in the second set, then the Lady Raiders surged ahead on the way to even the set with a 25-19 win.

Sidney's momentum continued early in the third set, using strong front row play to build an early 9-1 lead.

The teams played nearly even through the following minutes, but Chase County mounted a short rally, moving to within one point, 21-20.

An ace serve from Natalie Radcliffe, followed by tip and an ace hit from Payton Jung spurred the Lady Raiders final rally for a 25-20 win.

Sidney hit its stride in the fourth set, closing down Chase County effectively on the way to a 25-14 set win to capture the match.

Sidney Coach Sarah Wilson said she was please with the way the team overcame the adversity of the first set, settling into its game more and more as the match progressed.

"I think tonight they started to feel more comfortable with their roles," Wilson said following the match. "They made the mental adjustments they needed."

Wilson was particularly pleased with the Lady Raiders' serving. Sidney put 97 percent of their serves in play, and had nine aces through the evening, led by Radcliffe and Annalise Lecher, each with three aces.

Wilson said Sidney's net play was also strong, with strong contributions from five players.

Sidney's season continues today with triangular play in Gering, beginning at 4 p.m.

 

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