Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

PEDRO — It’s not how you start, but how you finish.

The Ironton Lady Fighting Tigers dropped the first match of their volleyball game Thursday, but rallied to win the next three sets and beat the Rock Hill Redwomen in an Ohio Valley Conference game.

Rock Hill rolled to a 25-10 win before Ironton took three tightly contested sets 25-20, 25-22 and 26-24.

“Our senior leadership helped us overcome the first loss and bounce back,” said Ironton coach Beth Campbell. “Our front row dominated the net with Karlie Rase, Lexi Washington and (freshman) Lexi Wise.”

The trio combined for 27 kills as they had nine each. Washington added five blocks and Rase three.

Alyssa Lewis scored a career-high 20 points including six aces for Ironton. Jordan Hannan had 16 points and Macy Wise had 12 points with seven aces.

Defensively, Ironton had 58 digs with Macy Wise, Tori Starr and Lexi Wise getting 11 each. Hannan had 31 setting assists.

“The girls had the grit and determination, something we have struggled with this season. It’s hard to make them realize their ability. They are extremely hard on themselves,” said Campbell.

“I was pleased with our overall efforts on the road and to get a win against a good defensive team like Rock Hill.”

Sami Dillon scored 19 points to lead Rock Hill while Jenna Lane had 14, Maddie Malone nine and Elisabeth Wilds eight.

In the junior varsity game, Ironton won 25-22, 25-21. Ali White led all scorers with 11 points, Alyssia Rowe had 7, Autumn Shope 5 and Kenzie Ashley 4 for Ironton.

Taylor Hall scored 8, Alyssa Monnig 6 and Abby Kline 5 for Rock Hill.

Ironton will host its Volleyball Showcase at 2 p.m. Saturday. Ironton will play St. Joseph and the event includes Zane Trace, Paint Valley, South Point and Russell, Ky.

Admission is $5 for the entire day.