Prep Volleyball: Harrisburg takes second at Marion Invite

Fresh off a second place finish at the Marion Invitational, where the Harrisburg volleyball team lost to Muphysboro in the championship game, the Bulldogs lost to MHS Tuesday night in straight sets.

The Red Devils won 25-9 and 25-21 where Devin Butler had 10 digs and Hannah Bartok had eight digs for the Bulldogs.

"We played Murphysboro back-to-back this week and they are a tough, talented team that we know always show up to play," Harrisburg head coach Heather Cox said. "(Tuesday) we just didn't have it. We started slow in the first set and lacked any energy or intensity. We picked it up in the second game, but just didn't have enough to get the job done. When you're two middles only have three kills each, it's tough to get a win. I will give credit to our defense and serve receive tonight."

Against Murphysboro, the Harrisburg junior varsity team lost in three sets, losing 16-25, 25-23 and 10-15.

At Marion, Harrisburg went 4-1, knocking off Herrin in straight sets, 25-21 and 25-20, beat NCOE in three sets, 30-28, 25-15 and 15-8, knocked off Du Quoin in straight sets, 25-16 and 25-21 and pulled off a three set win over Marion (25-22, 20-25 and 15-11), before falling to Murphysboro in straight sets (25-25, 24-26).

"We are finally starting to click consistently," Cox said. There is still a huge area for growth, but progress is starting to be more evident."

Bryleigh Buchanan had a big day at Marion, coming away with 34 kills and 14 blocks, which helped her get named to the All-Tournament Team.

Bartok and Butler also received high praise from Cox.

"Hannah stepped up big as a senior and led the team. She served well, passed well and took care of business at the net. Devin also stepped up her game defensively, it was a team effort without a doubt."

Following the conclusion of the Murphysboro game Tuesday night, the Harrisburg volleyball team made a $500 contribution to the family of Kevin Santos, who recently lost his life due to stomach cancer.