Wildkat spikers swept by Polson

By JOE SOVA / Hungry Horse News

Columbia Falls was swept by Polson in the Wildkats' Northwest A Conference opener on Saturday in the CFHS gym. Game scores were 25-15, 25-21, 25-16.

"I saw a lot of hustle. We played with a lot of heart," Wildkats head coach Addy Hines said.

The Kats and Pirates battled closely in the early going of the first set, but Polson pulled away for the win. CFHS had the lead in the second set, but could not hold on.

"I was pleased with the second game," Hines said. "We had a good effort. That's the best they've ever played."

Hines said that once the Kats started swinging hard on attacks rather than tipping, they were more effective with their offense.

"We have a whole new setting system," the coach said. "That paid off. We had an even attack."

The Kats had a problem containing Polson's 5-foot-9 Nicole Davey. The junior finished with nine kills and four blocks.

"We were a little slow on our blocks," Hines said. "We did have a few touches (on attempted blocks)."

Senior Amanda Milliard led the Kats with seven kills, and Jessica McMaster had six. Kayla DeWit had two of the Kats' three blocks. Cassidee Skiles had 14 set assists and two aces. Cedar Smith led in digs with 15, and Alyssa Ladenburg added 14.

Sophomore Kayla Duford had 22 set assists and seven aces for the Pirates.

CFHS competes in the Ronan Invitational this weekend, with pool play Friday and until noon Saturday. The Kats face the Southwest A Conference teams in round-robin play — Hamilton, Dillon, Anaconda, Frenchtown and Stevensville. Bracket play follows the pool matches.