Mike McGraw
Hoosier Authority
Perry Meridian was not in top form offensively in their
sectional opener Thursday evening. It mattered little. The Falcons had plenty
of factors in their favor to carry the day. Great defense, great serving, and a
great athlete led Perry to a three game sweep over Franklin Community 25-21,
25-15, 25-11.
began the match by doing what underdogs are supposed to do. They were crisp
offensively and controlled much of game one. The Grizzly Cubs had a three point
18-15 lead late in the game. Only a series of outstanding defensive plays by
Perry Meridian’s back line had managed to keep the score that close. Then the
Falcons did what favorites are supposed to do. They responded with a six point
run that included the two best offensive sets they displayed all game and never
looked back enroute to the comeback win.
As game two unfolded, Perry Meridian’s pinpoint serving
began to play a major role.
did an excellent job of keeping the service darts from becoming aces, but the Cubs
were forced into awkward passing angles and it began to limit their offense.
That in turn eased the pressure on the Falcons’ defense and allowed them to
improve their own passing. By midway through the game, Perry Meridian was in
control and cruised to the win.
Game three saw the Falcons’ athletic front line find hit
stride and that spelled a quick end to
season. Perry Meridian controlled the game from the outset and Coach Pat
Carlson pulled many of his more talented players late in the contest.
In any game of any sport, there are important keys to
victory that never show up in that stat sheet. A player who recognizes and
performs those things is invaluable. That may have been the biggest factor in
Perry Meridian’s favor Thursday night. The Falcons have Shelby Gray. Gray is an
outstanding athlete, but that is only part of the story. She is one of those
rare players who simply know how to win. You get the impression that would be
the case if you were playing her in a game of Monopoly or a field hockey game.
When things go wrong, Gray fixes them. When things go right, Gray is in the
middle of it. When Perry Meridian wins like they did Thursday night, the
opponent goes home wishing Gray had been on their side.
Perry Meridian’s victory sets up the match volleyball fans have
been waiting for all year, the tournament rematch between the Falcons and
perennial power Center Grove. Perry upset the Trojans on the way to the
sectional title a year ago and both Trojan coach Deb McClurg and her charges
have made it clear they have long memories. The struggle will take place
Saturday at about 12:30 in the semi-finals.
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