HOUGHTON — The Houghton Gremlins continued their winning streak on Monday, defeating visiting Ishpeming Hematite in a three-game sweep by scores of 25-20, 25-13, 25-18.
In the eyes of Gremlins coach Blair Zenner, the victory was due to strong serve-receive success.
“That’s something we’ve been working on.” she pointed out. “We felt better and were able to play our game.”
The first set started with both teams tied at 3, 5, and 6 before Hematite surged to a six-point lead at 18-12. Gremlin Laney Johnson then came to the line and tied the score at 19 points with seven service runs. Emmy Pietila then joined the line and the game was close to 25 points, with the Gremlins winning 25-20.
After a brief tie at 6 o’clock in the second set, the Gremlins stepped on the gas again. Johnson was in the driver’s seat. She served seven unanswered points in runs, giving the Gremlins a 13-7 lead. That turned into a 22-13 lead and eventually Kia Markham won 25-13.
Johnson had five aces on the night, along with five kills. Chloe Seraphine led the Gremlins with nine kills. Helen Rinkinen scored seven innings.
“In that second set, we really picked ourselves up and found our groove.” said Zenner. “I also want to give credit to Emmy (Pietila) and her strong defense. She did a great job of keeping the ball off the floor.”
Hematite was in the lead for most of the early part of the third set. Jayden Negilski pushed Ishpeming’s lead to 7-4 and the Gremlins tied it at 11, 12 and 15. Johnson then showed off his service magic once again, scoring four runs and taking a 19-15 lead. The Gremlins made the deal 25-18 for Seraphine.
Hematite coach Kat Viering said her players played OK, if not great.
“We played flat at times and they (Horton) exploited our weaknesses.” she added. “They put the ball where we weren’t. They’re a good team.”
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The Gremlins will travel to Hancock on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
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