By Jacob Richman

Varsity volleyball beat Rowlett for the fourth time this season 3-2 on Tuesday night, advancing to the Area Playoffs. This is the first time since 2009 the Eagles have reached Area.

In the first set, Richardson took an early lead and stayed with dominance. They would go on to win the first set 25-20, with effective offensive plays from Natalie Perdue who had 6 kills in the set.

Richardson started the second set with a 6-0 run, but Rowlett responded to a 9-3 scoring streak. Rowlett scored two straight points at the end of the set to win 28-26.

Early in the 3rd set Rowlett went on a 10-1 scoring streak with big plays from Gaby Flores and Essence West. Richardson was able to close the gap to three points, but another run from Rowlett put them one set away from area playoffs.

Richardson took lead once again during the fourth set. They went ahead with a 9-2 run with big plays from sophomore Payton Cerny and junior Morgan Frisby. Richardson won the set 25-14, forcing the game to a fifth set.

Midway through the 5th and deciding set, Rowlett led 14-13 – only one point from victory.

Successful defensive plays from senior Riley Wertzberger and senior Raven Presley lead Richardson to score three straight points to clinch the win sending the Eagles to the Area Playoffs.

“It was incredible,” Head Coach Eric Miracle said. “We fought and we never gave up.”

Richardson will play Rockwall Heath at Berkner High School this Saturday at 12:00pm.

“At this point, every team is good, so it’s the more mentally-solid team that will prevail,” Miracle said.