Elsah, IL. -- Another home match that did not disappoint! The Panthers beat Illinois College in three straight sets to move to 5-1. This match was about celebrating the team as one. This team has been growing into a beautiful FAMILY – "Forget About Me, I Love You", and tonight they showed it. The presence was calm and connected as the match began. PC was using a new lineup, and even though it caused a few stutters along the way, the women navigated the transition well, refocusing as needed.
Principia played point for point with IC until 10-10 in game one, and then steadily worked to create an 18-12 spread. However IC didn't go down without a fight narrowing the gap 19-21. After a timeout, the Panthers took care of business winning 25-22. Game two was a tough one for IC as the Panthers used every square inch of the court to move IC's defense. Prin took it 25-17, even though the end of the game showed too many unforced errors for PC. Game three had a rough start for Principia with IC in the driver's seat 6-3. Too many errors still, but the family just hung tight and supported each other and pulled themselves back into the moment – where they play the best and most joyful ball. PC took the match with a 25-19 win in game three.
Inside the Box Score
-Libero
Mia Gill showed an inspiring focus tonight, and found her way into the record books with her 34 digs. That puts her at #1 all time for Principia "Digs in a 3 set match"
-Setter
Devon Marunde was inspiring tonight – she did it all well – running down balls, beautiful setting (34 assists), in-a-row serves with 2 aces, as well as great blocking and offense.
-Principia hit .203, and held IC to negative hitting by gobbling up every hit IC delivered, and forcing them to take big swings and make mistakes.
News and Notes
-Last year Principia suffered a big loss to Illinois College, so it was nice to even the score.
They said it
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Noelle Shoemake had this to say after the match, "Our team loves each other so much, and that love is what makes us play well."
Up Next
-The Panthers hit the road Thursday to take on MacMurray in Jacksonville, IL at 7pm.
