Alex HelgueroThe Santa Ana Dons volleyball was swept by the Orange Coast Pirates 3-0 at home last Friday.
Coming into the game, the Dons knew the Pirates were a formidable opponent; they were coming into the game with a 9-0 unbeaten record.
“It’s so crazy that we get to play a team like this in our conference,” said head coach Myriah Kunpi-Aguirre. “I think just playing a high-level team is a really good experience for the girls.”
The first set started with a bang as the Pirates brutally built momentum, worsening the Dons’ struggle to adjust to their swift plays. The unfortunate combo resulted in a 25-9 blowout.
The Dons’ defense improved in the second set. Middle blocker and opposite hitter Natalie Peter stood out with powerful blocks and spikes that stunned the Pirates.
Still, the Pirates’ fierceness carried them through, claiming the second set 25-17.
With persevering strength, the Dons battled point-for-point in the final set, building on top of each other’s kills and tying a multitude of times as their final set concluded in an intense 25-20.
“I think this is what we needed,” said outside hitter Lyric Birdsong, “We knew it was going to be tough, but we knew that when we played together and believed in our teammates, it’d all find its way.”
Although the loss brought the Dons’ conference record to 0-2, the players received invaluable experience that will carry them in further conference games.
“We have a lot to learn,” said Peter. “I know I personally can do a lot better to help my team out. So, I think we definitely learned a lot going into playing them again in a couple of weeks. I think next time we face them, we’ll be prepared and ready.”
As a rematch against Orange Coast looms ahead, the Dons grow ever eager to prove just how much stronger they’ll be when they’re back home on Oct. 3 against Saddleback.
