Patriots secure road victory

The competition between the Leominster girls’ volleyball team and the North Middlesex Regional team is always highly anticipated, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. The mutual respect between coaches Sam Comeau and Mark Roy adds another layer of intensity to their matches. Even though the game was postponed from the beginning of the season, the Patriots and Blue Devils finally faced off at Leominster High School.

The Patriots came out strong in the first set, breaking a 13-13 tie by finishing with a flurry of points to take the set. Players like Jess Allard and Madi Blais showcased their skills at the net, with strong performances that helped North Middlesex secure the set. Despite Leominster’s efforts, led by players like Madi Kelly and Elizabeth Lohman, the Patriots took the first set.

In the second set, Leominster fought back with determination, securing a 25-12 victory to even the match at 1-1. Mya St. Jean’s strong serving and Lohman’s crucial block were instrumental in Leominster’s success. Comeau praised her team’s resilience in the face of a talented North Middlesex squad.

The pivotal third set saw North Middlesex regain control of the match, with players like Cora Boyle, Mollie Anderson, and Emma McCusker stepping up to secure a commanding lead. Despite a valiant effort from Leominster, the Patriots maintained their composure and secured the set.

In the fourth set, Leominster tried to mount a comeback, but North Middlesex proved too strong, ultimately closing out the match with a 25-18 victory. Lena Carignan and Allard made crucial plays down the stretch to seal the win for the Patriots.

While the Blue Devils look to bounce back in their upcoming games, the Patriots continue their winning ways as they prepare for future matchups. Both teams are set to face off once again later in the season, adding to the excitement of their rivalry. The coaches and players on both sides showed respect and admiration for each other, highlighting the camaraderie and sportsmanship present in high school sports.