Two games, one victory and one defeat, went on the books for the Lady Mustangs varsity volleyball team this past week.
On Tuesday, Aug. 29 the girls hosted Hughson and were victorious in four sets. Oakdale started off with two straight sets on the right side of the scoreboard winning 25-21 in each set. Hughson bounced back with a set three 25-23 victory, but Oakdale rallied in the fourth set to win 25-21.
On Thursday night, Aug. 31 the girls hosted longtime rival Sonora in non-league action. The Wildcats clawed their way to a 3-1 victory. The Lady Mustangs started off with a 25-19 first set victory and set two was a thriller. The see-saw battle saw several lead changes and was tied at 25, however Sonora got the next two points to win it, 27-25. Set three belonged to Sonora as they made short work of Oakdale 25-13. Oakdale played with passion in the fourth but came up short 25-21.
Having a big night for Oakdale were Abigail Matoso, 11 digs and eight kills; Alyssa Cogburn, 20 assists and three aces; Grace Verdegaal, five kills, five aces and three blocks; Brittany Gibson, five blocks; and Kailee Whorton, 22 digs.
“As a coach I’m proud of the girl’s performance Thursday night. They really came together as a team and played with heart, and as a coach you can’t ask for anything more,” said head coach Heather Gonzales of the squad battling against Sonora. “We have room for improvement but any team does. I have confidence in my team’s attitude and work ethic that we will fine tune certain skills and have a successful season. I’m really excited about this season. I have a team full of amazing talent, but most importantly, athletes full of heart.”
As for the freshman and junior varsity clubs, the freshmen were victorious over Sonora 2-1 while the junior varsity fell by a 2-1 final.
Oakdale traveled to Escalon on Tuesday, Sept. 5 following The Leader’s deadline. The Lady Mustang squads return to action on Thursday, Sept. 7 in a home match against Tracy with games starting at 4 p.m.
On Saturday, Sept. 9 the junior varsity girls will host the Junior Varsity Invitational beginning at 8:30 a.m. and on Monday, Sept. 11 the Valley Oak League season begins with a road match against Sierra.
