FALLSBURG – The Port Jervis Raiders paid a visit to the Fallsburg Comets Friday night for a non-league Volleyball matchup. Prior to the start of the first set the gym atmosphere was buzzing. Players, coaches and the crowd were amped and ready to watch both teams compete!

Both teams came into the game anticipating a good matchup. The visiting Raiders came into the contest 4-3. The Port Jervis coaching staff said they had had an okay start to the season and were looking forward to playing the upstart Fallsburg team. Watching warmups, you could tell the Raiders were going to be a tough matchup for the Comets.

Beginning in the first set the Raiders set the tone with strong service, setting, and hitting at the net. PJ jumped out to a quick lead over FB. The Comets looked flustered and tight to start the match dealing with the Raiders well rounded play on the court. FB did rally mid first set which got the home crowd going and back into the contest. The Comet fans did a great job supporting them throughout the night with the admirable opponent. PJ held off the FB rally and took Set 1 25-17.

The Raiders hot play continued into set 2 when they jumped out to a 12-3 lead forcing Comets coach Amy Johnson to call a TO. Port saw strong performances all match from their play at the net all evening. Ava Mills, Senior Co-Captains Mikayla Soboleski & Kaleigh Polanis, Kamynee Leicht, and Riley Dunn all played excellent not only at the net but all over the court. This could not have happened without strong play from setter Erika Colon. Following the TO FB saw a mini run to attempt to get back into the set. PJ proved to be too much and closed out the Comets 25-9 in set 2.

The final set saw some of the best plays of the evening from FB where they jumped out to an early 9-5 lead! FB top performers in this match included Arslyn Cantave, Kaitlyn Pedersen, Jordyn Wall Carry, Brianna Noller and Maya Ballard. The quick Comet lead appeared to grab the attention of the Raiders as they stormed back into the set and took the 3rd and final set 25-12. Overall, the Raiders dominated the match thanks to a great game plan with rotations, lineups and strategy implemented. 

The Comets should not be discouraged by this outcome against a tough quality opponent and should use this as a learning experience as they progress into their season.