Storm Lake Pilot Tribune: High School Sports: Panthers dropped by Manson NWW in three (09/01/10)

MASON - Despite a gutsy effort, the St. Mary's Panthers dropped their season opener to Class 2A Manson Northwest Webster Thursday night, falling in three straight by finals of 17-25, 12-25, and 20-25.

"For our first game out against a good 2A team in Manson NW Webster, I thought we played well," said first-year SM head coach Courtney Berg. "We started the third game down 2-10 and climbed our way back to finish at 20-25. I thought we showed a lot of determination and the girls fought hard and didn't give in. We had a great serving night and only missed 2 serves in 3 games. We saw a lot of encouraging things tonight and some things we need to work on, but I think we are on the right track."

St. Mary's kept it close by turning in that impressive effort at the line, finishing 34-for-36 with three aces.

Offensively, Anyssa Lenhart led the way with four kills and an ace, while adding six digs and four blocks on the defensive end. Alyssa Drey was 7-of-9 hitting with four kills, three blocks and six digs, Cassie Todd notched eight digs, and Ashley Lullman added seven assists.

St. Mary's (0-1) returns to the court today as they take part in the Coon Rapids Bayard Tournament.