In the Lady Eagles opening match of the season against Central, Tyrone took care the Lady Dragons in straight sets. What the match lacked in drama, it more made up for in memorable plays, including one amazing save by senior Kylee Gooding.

Tapping into her inner soccer skills, Gooding made a fantastic play by playing a low pass with her feet in a way that even David Beckham would be in awe of. Defying logic the ball somehow stayed in play.  While the play did not ultimately result in a point, it amazed the home crowd and motivated her teammates (see embedded video).

“That [play] was the highlight of my entire volleyball career,” said Gooding.

That was just one of many jaw dropping play the Lady Eagles would execute in their 3 set slaying over Central’s Scarlet Dragons.

“We played with confidence and made minor adjustments as needed. We always continued to battle regardless of the score,” said Head Coach Mike Kraft.

Tyrone won the first set 25-16. In the second set Central tried to make a comeback, but the Lady Eagles persevered to come out on top with a score of 25-23. In the third set, Central succumbed to the hitting powers of Tyrone’s starting 5 hitters, giving the game to the Lady Eagles 25-9.

Gooding led the charge with 10 kills, sophomores Makenna Bauer and Courtney Williams followed with 6 kills, and junior Brianna Foy had 5 kills. Sophomore Mattie Cherry had 24 assists and junior Ebonee Rice had 6 digs. Foy had 14 service points including 7 aces, followed by Rice with 9 service points.

Getting the first game under their belts “definitely eased the nerves. There are big things to come from the girls volleyball team,” said Gooding.

Tonight the girls will travel to face reigning District 6 champions Bald Eagle Area.

“We need to be more aggressive from the service line and put more pressure on Bald Eagle Area. If we do that, they become a lot more predictable,” said Kraft.

To prepare the girls for this match up, they have been studying film and devising their game plan.

“We haven’t beaten Bald Eagle Area ever, but I believe that this year we have the most talent and are best prepared for getting that upset win,” said Bauer.

After Tuesday nights game, the Eagles will face a strong Penns Valley team at home. JV starts at 6 pm and a Varsity game to follow at 7 pm.