Young New Kent Lady Trojans’ volleyball squad drops home opener to Bruton
New Kent sophomore Fallon Greenawalt (left) tries to figure away to place the ball over the net against the outstretched arms of Jamestown’s Mina and Jolie Faw (right).Robb Johnson photo
New Kent’s Lady Trojans have enjoyed success over the last few years thanks to strong, experienced classes. But with a team that lost eight to graduation plus new head coach Stuart Burnett receiving his opportunity at the helm, the learning experiences are going to be plentiful. Such was the case in Tuesday night’s home opener for the Lady Trojans.
Despite a comeback that saw New Kent battle back from being down two sets, the visiting Bruton Lady Panthers defeated New Kent in five sets (23-25, 23-25, 25-14, 25-14, 13-15) in the opening Bay Rivers District contest for both teams.
The Lady Trojans natural talent shined early on, as an early 5-0 run in the opening frame provided the hosts a 7-3 lead. But Bruton’s size, led by sophomore twins Jolie and Mina Faw made it difficult for the hosts to earn spikes. Resorting to tips, New Kent tried to outmaneuver Bruton. But instead, a strong defense in the waning points provided the visitors with a win in set one.
Frame two saw the confidence of Bruton skyrocket, at they took a 19-12 lead. But New Kent battled back with a massive run of their own, scoring eight of the next nine points to even the game at 20 apiece. But Mina Faw elevated over the net for a kill that boosted the visitors’ lead to 24-21. And despite the Lady Trojans getting within one, it was another Mina Faw spike and score that led to Bruton capturing set number two.
Sets three and four showed New Kent’s talent. The team started to use more passing and force Bruton’s front line to shuffle over instead of being in positions to block. The results proved impressive, with the Lady Trojans claiming 25-14 victories in both frames to tie the game and force the match to one final game in a race to 15.
In the fifth, Bruton snapped out of their slump, finally being able to provide defensive support when blocks were missed. The digs by the Lady Panthers were able to help their offensive attack as points were at a premium. And while New Kent kept it coach, it was Bruton who iced the game in the end and walked out with a road win.
After the contest, Burnett spoke about the improvements his team needed to make as they began their journey at the varsity level.
“We have more height than we have in the past, but we are young with two new setters,” he said, referencing the rebuild of the squad. “We have had excellent, competitive scrimmages.
“The middles are still young, and you have to work in order to play against teams in the Bay Rivers,” Burnett added. “But overall, I am still hopeful about this up-and-coming season.”
New Kent opens the season with an 0-1 record.