It was just like a rivalry win is supposed to be: tough, focused and full of hard work.
The Lady Bisons won the first match against the “Battle of the Boulevard” rival Belmont in four sets.
“Belmont is going to be one of the top three or four teams [in the conference],” said Lady Bisons coach Brandon Rosenthal. “Winning the way we did where we had to fight through [sets] three and four just adds a bit more confidence.”
The Lady Bisons won the first two sets 25-19 and 25-18.
Belmont fired back in the third set winning 25-23.
“It was about execution,” said Rosenthal. “Whether we win the point or not we have to execute”.
The Lady Bisons rallied behind seniors Alex Kelly, and Jake Pease to win the final match 25-15.
“Alex and Jake are players and people who just want to win,” said Rosenthal. “They’re willing to do whatever it takes.”
“During the fourth set the girls really settled down and served tough,” Rosenthal said. “The substitution of Claire Peterson was key there at the end of the match.”
A win against Belmont is always extra special to the Lady Bisons.
“I don’t take this for granted, and I don’t think the girls do,” coach Rosenthal said. “This is a rivalry. It runs deep for us.”
The Lady Bisons travel to St. Louis this weekend for the Billiken Invitational.