Over, out for Comets: Harvard stings Newman in semi

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Newman senior Kaitlyn Hunsberger sets the ball Tuesday in Oregon. (Chris Padgett/cpadgett@svnmail.com )

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OREGON – Newman Central Catholic’s fine volleyball season came to an end Tuesday.

Newman was stung by the Harvard Hornets in sectional semifinal play at the Blackhawk Center, falling 25-10, 25-17. The Comets bow out of postseason play with a mark of 20-10.

“They really took us out of sync,” Newman coach Jay Howell said. “We were back on our heels because they had some big swings, then they would hurt us with their short shots and tips.

“They took us out of our game. We just were never able to get an offense going or get any runs together.”

Newman’s lone lead in the opening game came on the first point of the match. Harvard (24-12) scored the next six points and rolled through the remainder of Game 1.

The Comets strung together a four-point run to make it 15-9 before the Hornets responded with a 10-1 blitz to close the game.

Down, but not out, Newman hung tough in the early stages of the second game. The Comets led several times, the last instance at 4-3.

Moments later, Harvard took the lead for good at 6-5. The Hornets built to a 13-7 advantage, but Newman tried to stay within striking distance.

The Comets were within five twice in the latter stages of the game, the final time at 22-17, before Harvard finished things with three straight points.

Newman senior Sarah Prendergast had a team-high four kills, while junior teammate Brianna Richardson led the Comets with three blocks.

Newman junior Sarah Cesarek had six digs, and senior Kaitlyn Hunsberger added five.

Senior Ashleigh Fisher led the Hornets’ heavy hitters with 10 kills. Junior Brittany Finke added five, and junior Megan Struck had four.

“Our serve receive has been a strength all season; it was not up to par tonight,” Howell said. “I credit that to their serving. We were off-balance all night.

“We gave it a shot in the second game. We started putting a few things together, but they were just too much for us tonight.”

Howell reflected on an outstanding season.

“Our girls need to be really proud of what they’ve done for the program this year,” he said. “We had 20 wins and won a regional championship for the first time in 12 years.”

Star of match: Ashleigh Fisher, Harvard, 10 kills

Key performers: Brittany Finke, Harvard, 5 kills; Sarah Prendergast, Newman, 4 kills; Megan Struck, Harvard, 4 kills; Brianna Richardson, Newman, 3 blocks

Up next: 2A Oregon final, Harvard vs. West Carroll, 7 p.m. Thursday

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