Libertyville overcame some emotions in Tuesday’s match against Buffalo Grove.
The No. 6 Wildcats lost their first match of the season Saturday to Lyons, then returned Tuesday for a sentimental senior night match against the Bison.
“After the Lyons game, it was weird to lose for the first time,” Libertyville senior Paige Hopper said. “We wanted to stay undefeated. We needed to put that loss behind us.
“Then it was weird to get used to the lineup changes today. We have played the same six players most of the year.”
The distractions didn’t bother the Tigers, who topped Buffalo Grove25-22, 25-16 . The win wasn’t a work of art , but the Wildcats managed to play all nine of their seniors.
“We had a lot of people out of position, but it was great to get the seniors on the floor and see them play together,” Libertyville coach Greg Loika said. “We haven’t practiced since the Lyons loss. For me, that was a good loss. I was happy with the way we played. Lyons is a strong team.”
The Bison (4-22) played better than their record, not allowing the Wildcats (27-1) more than a three-point lead until late in the second game. Hopper broke up a close game by serving eight consecutive points to end the match. Ryan Cummins had two kills during the run.
“We’re trying to build on (Saturday’s) loss,” Libertyville senior Catie Steffen said. “This was a great night and it’s been fun playing with the seniors.”
Player of the match:
Paige Hopper, Libertyville, 7 kills, 6 digs, 2 aces.
Key performers
: Buffalo Grove — Kathy Hampton, 12 assists; Alanna Zawlocki, 5 kills; Victoria Ito, 18 digs. Libertyville — Catie Steffen, 7 digs, 4 kills, 3 assists; Hannah Saia, 13 digs.
