Behind some stellar work from middle Ekam Khangura, the New West senior girls volleyball team spun its first win of the season, topping Alpha 3-0.
Khangura dominated at the net, and nailed numerous serves to keep the Hyacks on top (25-14, 25-17, 25-11).
Despite losing their starting setter after the first game due to prior commitments, New West raised the bar, thanks to a strong rightside performance from Lauryn Savela and setter Mariel Olaguer.
Unfortunately, the squad wasn’t able to carry that positive result over, finishing the regular season with two losses, both 3-0, to Burnaby Mountain and Burnaby South.
Against Mountain, New West were unable to build upon a five-point lead on two occasions and suffered through a few too many unforced errors. Providing strong work on the night was Kozy Tamai.
In the most recent contest, Burnaby South dominated the net to make it a clean sweep.
The Hyacks, however, still have games to play after Byrne Creek withdrew earlier in the year. The single win over Alpha secured the last playoff berth. That game was played Thursday, past the Record’s deadline.
“! I think our girls know that they have improved and playoffs always bring out the best in athletes,” remarked coach Manny Valoma.
It’s been a work in-progress for the squad, beginning with three tough losses. Against Burnaby North, New West was pinned down by an aggressive Viking opponent. Turning in solid efforts were middle blocker Sarah Forgie and libero Kayoko Mayede.
While Burnaby Central delivered a 3-0 loss in their encounter, the Hyacks were led by captain Julianne Ritso.
The team has also gotten stellar contributions from international students Camilla Indelicato and Tamai.
