The Moorpark Raiders women’s volleyball team came out aggressively within the first few minutes of the Sept. 29 game, as they looked to beat their long-time rival. But, the Ventura Pirates beat Moorpark by a score of 3-1, making this match Moorpark’s third consecutive loss at the time.
The match did not start the way the Raiders had planned as they lost the first set 25-16 due to the aggressive play from the Pirates. The second set however was a different story, as the Raiders were able to take control and outperform the Pirates with some exceptional plays. Moorpark was victorious in this set 25-22.
Throughout the second set, Raiders’ sophomore setter Madison Fuller supported her team with some impressive assists. She leads the team in assists this year, with 135 thus far.
“I think our game plan today was just to capitalize on everything they were weak on,” said Fuller. “They had a short blocker and we knew a lot of their tendencies, so we really tried to set up the best matchups that we could.”
Ventura fought hard in the third set and was able to bounce back, winning 25-18. Ventura displayed great control of this set, as they were able to make tough plays and capitalize on various opportunities. Ventura won the final set with, again, a score of 25-18.
Despite the loss, Moorpark sophomore libero Eleanna Laba served the ball exceptionally and had a handful of digs that saved her team from allowing points. Laba is continuing her stellar season as she leads the team in digs, with 118 so far.
“I think we had a pretty good serving game,” said Laba. “I would say we did well keeping the ball in play and serving at the spots we were given by our coaches and moving the other team around.”
After the game, Moorpark head coach Adam Black spoke on what the team needed to improve on heading into their next game.
“I’d say managing the game a little bit better especially when it gets tough, and taking care of the ball a little bit better,” said Black. “We also need to sustain good play, and good play doesn’t always mean scoring. But, if we can sustain it throughout the game and be consistent, we will have more opportunities.”
Moorpark played LA Pierce College on Oct. 1 and won that match in three sets, they then played LA Mission College on Oct. 6 and also won in three sets. Moorpark will face Santa Barbara City College on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at Santa Barbra.
