Wickliffe won the first two sets then needed a win in the fifth game to defeat host Cuyahoga Heights on Thursday, 3-2.
The Blue Devils won the match 25-15, 25-22, 21-25, 17-25, 15-11.
“The girls are still learning that we need to stay focused and play some defense,” said Wickliffe coach Danette Cullinane. “We can’t allow teams to get a big lead on us and expect to always come back and win.”
Abby Baumgartner led the Blue Devils with 10 kills and five blocks. Elizabeth Lesco recorded 34 digs and Olivia Clark recorded 25 digs.
“Isabella DeVincentis and Abby Baumgartner had some key tips and kills in the fifth game to take a lead,” Cullinane said. “Elizabeth Lesco and setter Mandy Salvia played scrappy defense and covered the tips and shots down the line.”
Salvia’s defense was especially crucial to the win.
“Mandy Salvia is realizing that as a setter her defense is just as important as our offense,” Cullinane said. “She came through for us and helped us win the last set. I am always proud of these young ladies. They are a special group and always give 100-percent.”
Lou DeVincentis contributed to this story.
