The sophomores shined.

Lakeland Hawks volleyball defeated Moscow three sets to one, due in part to efforts by sophomores Ziya Munyer and Landree Simon.

The teams were tied up 18-18 in the first set, and the intense battle continued. Blocking in our front row and a couple of aces allowed Lakeland to stick with the Bears. Lakeland pulled through and won 26-24.

Sophomore Landree Simon brought the Hawks to success early in the second set with two kills and a block within the first 4 points.

Once again, our front row greatly contributed to the final result of the set. Ziya Munyer alone had multiple blocks, and Olivia Zazuetta closed out the second set with an ace.

“We played a little bit slow, and it was really a battle for us, but we fought really hard,” recalled Munyer.

Similar to the previous sets, the third was close all the way through. Lakeland tied with Moscow 7-7 and again at 24. Kenna Simon shined in the third set by picking up a block and two kills, one of which locked the score at 24. However, Moscow responded with two points to take the set.

Lakeland did not let its momentum fall in the fourth set despite losing, as they finished Moscow off 25-18.

When asked about the upcoming game against Sandpoint, Munyer said, “We’ll be ready. Moscow was a good learning experience; we’ll be ready to fight.”

Lakeland will take on Sandpoint for the first time this season on September 22nd. Sandpoint is currently struggling with a 1-7 record, with their only win being Bonners Ferry. This will be the first of two meetings this week.