Thursday the Oak Harbor Wildcats’ volleyball team recorded a 3-1 loss against Monroe that currently leaves the team in district play-off limbo. Oak Harbor ended league play in fifth place of the WesCo North, with a record of 4-3.
That’s one place shy of a guaranteed trip ticket to districts, which has been the team’s goal all season. A shot a districts is still a possibility, but they will have to outplay the WesCo South number four in a tie-breaker game Monday, Nov. 4, where the winner advances to districts.
As of Friday their challenger looks to be either Lynnwood or Shorewood, depending where the south division cards fall.
Thursday’s loss capped a tough season for the Wildcat girls. Struggling for consistency all year, they had their shining moments, including shutout wins against Cascade, Lake Stevens and Mariner. Even in the 15-2, 5-15, 15-17, 12-15 match against Monroe, calling it a loss produced mixed feelings when the Cats were winningly able to hold rallies to tiring lengths with determination. Oak Harbor coach Kerri Molitor said despite “some great rallies, Monroe were able to come out ahead.”
“We came out very strong, but did not play consistently,” she added. “Monroe was a good defensive team, and it seemed to frustrate us.”
Stats leaders for the Monroe game included: Camille Merritt with 11 kills, four blocks; Heidi McNeill with nine kills, five aces, five blocks; Alicia Lancaster with nine kills, five blocks; and Nikki Barone with 30 assists.
Tuesday, the Cats claimed a 3-1 win over Mount Vernon. After getting off to a slow start, the Cats picked it up and held on for the win.
“It all came down to the basics– we started serving and passing very well,” Molitor said. “ The team was very unified, as they played. Everyone brought their strengths to the court.”
Stat leaders included Heidi McNeill with 13 kills, closely followed by Lancaster and Rachel Pitt with nine each. Camille Merritt also was strong at the net with eight kills. Lancaster and Merritt each scored with three aces. Pitt led the team in digging with 21 digs, and Nikki Barone had 37 assists.
The Cats will play a Nov. 4 game against the WesCo South number four finisher at the opposition’s school. Then, a win is needed for a chance to head to districts, while a loss will close to the season for the Wildcats.
