PORTLAND, OR - The Benson varsity volleyball team went into Thursday night's home match against Franklin still eager for its first win. Although the Techsters did not get that elusive victory, the night was not a complete loss.
Benson (0-8) lost in straight sets to Franklin (2-6) but fought ferociously in the second and third sets, losing by the narrowest of margins. The final score was 25-16, 25-23, 25-22.
Trailing 22-17, the Techsters rallied for a 6-2 run late the second set to cut the deficit to 24-23, but they were unable to complete the comeback as the Quakers rode their imposing frontcourt to put the set away.
The third set was another close call as the Techsters held a 20-18 lead before managing just two points the rest of the set to fall 25-22.
The first set did not contain the same amount of drama as Franklin raced out to a 9-0 lead.
“At this point, the team’s main focus is to gain experience and practice communicating better," said Benson senior setter Angelica Cortez. "Our team is still very young and has much to improve. Like coach said, a rebuilding year isn’t the best year stat-wise, but we will still continue to put up a fight every game and try our best to show the potential we have on this team."
The Techsters struggled to defend against the height of the Quakers, who featured an outstanding attack all night, repeatedly spiking and tipping many shots over the smaller Techsters. On the other side of the ball, Benson struggled to generate a consistent attack.
"I haven’t been having the best performances the past games, due to this injury of mine, but that doesn’t mean I will use that as an excuse," said Cortez. "Instead, that’s my motivation to step up my game and progress to the next level. The team's goal everyday at practice is not just enhancing our skills, but having a better team chemistry.”
Benson is back in action Monday at Lincoln. Franklin hosts Wilson Monday night.