Everything was clicking for Centralia as the Tigers blasted visiting Aberdeen from start to finish, dumping the Bobcats in straight sets (25-19, 25-18, 25-15) to capture their first win Thursday in 2A Evergreen Conference action.
“It feels good to get the first win this season in our home gym,” Centralia coach Marti Smith said. “We’ve had a really good, steady home crowd and they bring a lot of energy. They’re amazing.”
Other than a slight bump in the second set, the Tigers were in control throughout, led by Evie Rooklidge’s team-high 21 digs to go with 12 for 12 serving and five aces.
“Evie is our steady, consistent libero and brings it every night,” Smith said. “Tonight was her best night in serve receive.”
Tatum Johnston and Ella Orr each spearheaded the Tigers’ attack with a team-high six kills. Orr added 12 digs. Jadyn Hawley was 17 for 18 serving with six aces and 10 digs.
Peyton Smith handed out 24 assists and 10 digs, while Makayla Chavez had four kills and Gracie Schofield contributed five aces. The Tigers tallied 21 aces as a team.
“Tonight, we still weren’t quite where we can be,” Smith said. “We had a slight dip in the second set, took a timeout and the girls responded and never looked back. Really proud of them for that; to keep the momentum, not back down and get the sweep.”
Smith commended Johnston for owning the net against the Bobcats, Schofield for bringing it on the service line and Chavez for her work in the middle.
Centralia (1-3, 1-3 league) travels to W.F. West for a rivalry matchup on Tuesday.
“The key for us will be trying to balance being hyped but at the same time being steady,” Smith said.
