Playoffs are approaching fast and LBCC is looking to cement themselves as the top contender in the South division by taking on the their toughest challenge yet.
On Oct. 13, Chemeketa, who’s currently ranked second place, came looking for revenge because LBCC had beaten them on their home court in five sets to start conference play back in mid-September.
During the game, the first set was close but Chemeketa came out on top winning 25-20. The Roadrunners played sluggish as the Chemeketa Storm rolled in playing like the number two team in the South division on a seven game winning streak.
The Chemeketa Storm upset the Roadrunners by winning in three straight sets. Even with the loss, LBCC still stands at the top of the division in the conference at 8-1 and 23-5 overall.
“They came out relentless. They were covering their spots well and simply outplayed us,” said Sara Fanger, captain and defensive specialist.
LBCC trailed early 11-5, but wasn’t going to give up. They were able to trim the lead to 15-12 but didn’t look like they were in the game as the Storm took control, going back up by seven leading 19-12 forcing LBCC to call a timeout. They were able to trim the lead 19-17, but couldn’t regain balance.
The Storm came out even more aggressive in the second set, forcing LBCC to call yet another timeout after going down by eight. The Roadrunners ended up losing the second set 25-17.
The third set was back and forth with each team responding point for point until LBCC called a timeout when they trailed 11-13. It looked like LBCC could make a comeback and force a fourth set, but Chemeketa went on a 9-1 run separating the teams and in the end won the set 25-15.
“We learned that we have to come out with our best game and be humble every single week,” said freshman middle blocker Jenaya Wright.
Freshman middle blocker, Jenaya Wright, scored the most with 7 points. Sara Fanger had 11 digs along with Kylene Briggs who had 8 digs.
The final home game is Sophomore Night on Oct. 25 against Mt. Hood.
Story by Joshua Knight
Photos by Angela Scott