Despite playing with consistent effort, boys’ volleyball fell to the Natick Redhawks 0-3, Tuesday, May 13, in the Reggie Gym.
The bleachers, packed with supportive parents and fans, set the tone for an electric first set from the Tigers, who demonstrated confidence, and adapted to Natick’s quick pace.
However, with senior captains Brady Dwyer, Simon Vardeh, and Paul Nelson unable to play in the game due to injuries, the Tigers quickly began to feel the weight of their absence. Head coach Nile Fox attributed the loss to a lack of physically able players. “We have a few kids out right now. Hopefully we can get our starters back, that’s our current goal,” he said.
Although some miscommunication from the Tigers allowed a few serves to slip into the net, they rebounded quickly, but Natick remained unphased. North called a time-out five minutes into the first with 5-10 in favor of Natick. By the end of the first set, the Tigers conceded 21-25 as a result of Natick’s quick blocks.
Natick had multiple serves into the net, giving North a leg up in the beginning of the second, although the Redhawks recovered quickly. North’s supporters did not let the score deter them, however, and echoes of their cheers were heard in all corners of the Reggie Gym.
According to Fox, sophomore Bryson Mercedes stepped up during the second set. “Bryson Mercedes had a few good hits, his hits really helped us in a few tight spots,” Fox added.
Even though the Tigers had multiple saves, they surrendered four points in the second set to erratic hits into the walls and the bleachers.Whilst playing with the same energy they brought into the first set, the second set ended unfavorably for North, with a score of 13-25.
“I’m looking to get more consistent with my blocking for our next game, which would improve our playing,” said junior Amaris Cotto.
The Tigers’ lack of communication, according to Cotto, allowed Natick to dominate the 3rd set, which helped the Redhawks quickly accumulate the points needed to win 6-25.
The team fell to Saint John’s Wednesday, May 14. The Tigers will travel to face Brookline Thursday, May 15.
