The Olmsted Falls Bulldogs secured a decisive victory against the Amherst Comets on September 26, winning in straight sets, 25-16, 25-15, 27-25.
After a week marked by a postponed match against Avon due to a tornado warning, the Bulldogs were eager to return to normalcy. “Thank God that we just had a normal game. It feels so much better to be on a normal schedule,” said Olmsted Falls senior Hayden Hess.
The Bulldogs (11-3, 9-1 SWC) showcased their strong defensive skills, especially at the net. In the first set, the score was tied at 14 before Olmsted Falls went on a 7-0 run, fueled by Maya Awad’s two aces and three consecutive blocks from Carmen Muzingo. The team capped off an 11-2 run with kills from Muzingo, Hess, and Jesse Simon.
“For the first and second sets, our block, especially Carmen, Jesse, and Maya, really elevated the game for us,” said Olmsted Falls coach Brigid Radigan.
In the second set, Hess led the charge with seven kills, helping the Bulldogs extend their lead. A series of successful serves contributed to the Bulldogs’ ten aces throughout the match.
“We really focused on the film and where they were going. We just kept each other hyped up and confident,” Muzingo commented on the Bulldogs’ blocking strategy.
The third set started strong for Olmsted Falls, who quickly built a 16-6 lead. However, Amherst responded with a remarkable rally, led by Kendal Dobbins, who recorded 14 kills in the match, including seven in the final set. The Comets pulled ahead 19-18 with an ace from Jayla Cruz.
“There are moments where it looks fantastic and moments where I’m wondering what we are doing,” said Amherst coach Felicia Sanchez, reflecting on the team’s ups and downs this season.
The set continued with both teams exchanging points until the Bulldogs regained the lead at 23-22. Despite having match point twice, Amherst fought back, tying the score at 25. Awad ultimately secured the win for Olmsted Falls with a decisive kill.
“We’re a veteran team with mostly juniors and seniors. Sometimes the kids just need to stay calm and refocus,” Radigan said. “We took it point-by-point and focused on the fundamentals to get the victory.”
Olmsted Falls will look to continue their winning momentum in their upcoming matches.
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