"In the first match against Kennett, I think the girls were intimidated
because they knew Kennett was tough, and we knew that Kennett won the districts last year," Friel said.
Harriton played like an intimidated team, dropping both games in 15 minutes by a combined score of 30-3.
While Kennett got strong serving and spiking from a number of players, Harriton faltered, often serving into the net.
"We needed a wake-up call during the first match, but nobody seemed to be home," Friel said. "All week during practice, I told them Kennett was beatable; I guess they just didn't believe that when they got out on the court today."
Harriton got a boost when it defeated Christopher Dock in three games in the first match in the losers' bracket.
Harriton won the first game, 15-8, but the second game was more of a dogfight, and Harriton lost, 15-17, despite holding match point and serving at 15-14. Christopher Dock carried its momentum into the deciding game, jumping out to a 3-1 lead. But with the hard work of Kim Lonesome, Deena Brenner and Heather Victor, the Rams clawed their way to a 15-10 victory.
Harriton earned a rematch with Kennett, but fell by a combined score of 30-7. Kennett went on to lose in two games to district champion Villa Maria.
The score of the second match between Harriton and Kennett belied the Rams' strong effort and improved play.
Harriton maintained a one-point lead for part of the first game. The Rams outhustled Kennett in the early going before the serving of Kennett's Diana Dampman took over.
Friel pointed to Victor's serving and Lonesome's hitting as bright spots for Harriton.
"We played all right today, but our goal is to play at the level of Kennett and Villa Maria soon," Friel said.
