Prep Volleyball: Lady Bulldogs open conference play win over Benton

Bryleigh Buchanan had 10 kills and Matty Hawkins had eight as Harrisburg opened SIRR Ohio action with a 25-12, 25-21 win over Benton Thursday night in Davenport Gym.

"It's big to win against Benton," said Harrisburg coach Heather Cox. "They are a talented program and they have been since I played back in the day. They are always consistent, they always play tough, so to win at home against them is wonderful."

Jessica Schwartz added 11 assists and Devin Butler had nine for HHS (4-4, 1-0). Senior Tony Crisp had two aces.

For the Rangerettes, (4-5, 0-1) Zoe Carlton had 10 assists while Eb Casey and Brooklyn Calcaterra each had 15 digs. Sydney Tate added four kills for Benton.

"We have to learn and play the middles," said Benton coach Rhonda Carlton. "We practiced, but we didn't execute well in our spots, but you've got to give it to Harrisburg. They are very competitive."

The Lady Bulldogs raced out to a 15-7 edge in the first game.

Benton tried to rally back from a 10-3 hole in the second game and pulled to within 24-21 before Buchanan ended the match for HHS.

Harrisburg is scheduled to play Saturday at the Mascoutah Invite in pool play format against Greenville, Columbia and the hosts.

Benton will host its own tournament this weekend.

Benton won the freshman contest Thursday evening. Harrisburg took the JV matchup in two sets.