UPDATE: The Branson School girls volleyball team is set to defend its title in a highly anticipated rematch against Marin Catholic this Saturday at 7 PM after a decisive victory over Redwood in the North Coast Section (NCS) Open Division semifinals. The Bulls dominated the match, winning in straight sets with scores of 25-12, 25-17, 25-21, showcasing their determination to remain champions.
Branson’s players displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, with standout performances from outside hitter Ella Tsai, who led the team with 14 kills. The Bulls, seeded fourth, avenged their earlier five-set loss to top-seeded Redwood, moving their record to 19-7 for the season.
“This victory is crucial for our momentum as we head into the final,” Tsai stated. “We feel like the title belongs to us, and we are determined not to let it slip away.”
The Bulls quickly established control in the first set, surging ahead with leads of 8-3 and 17-5, fueled by impressive service runs from Abby King and Blake Cussen. Redwood struggled to find its rhythm, having faced a lengthy layoff after a first-round bye.
Branson libero Lucy Tusher, who recorded 13 digs, noted, “Not being on the court is a big thing. We could see it in the first points of the match.”
As the game progressed, Branson diversified its offensive strategy, with four players contributing at least nine kills. Middle blocker Ellie Corsello added 11 kills to the tally, while both Cussen and King secured nine kills each. Coach Michelle Brazil praised the teamwork that enabled such a balanced attack, saying, “The fact that Ellie got so many sets is indicative of us passing and playing defense so well.”
In the second set, after trailing briefly, Branson took the lead for good at 7-6 and effectively maintained it, despite Redwood’s attempts to rally. The Giants, who had recently shown resilience by coming back from two sets down in their previous match, found themselves in a tight contest during the third set. They managed to tie the score at 20-20 before Branson seized the opportunity and closed the match with a flurry of points.
This victory not only propels Branson into the finals but sets the stage for a rematch against Marin Catholic, who finished the regular season with a strong 25-6 record. The two teams have met twice already this year, with Branson winning their initial encounter and Marin Catholic claiming victory in their subsequent matchup.
The championship clash will occur at Marin Catholic High School and promises to be a thrilling showdown as both teams vie for the coveted NCS title.
As Branson prepares for this critical game, the team’s commitment and focus remain resolute. “We don’t stop at anything to get it,” Tsai emphasized, highlighting the emotional stakes involved in defending their title.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the rematch, which not only represents athletic competition but also showcases the spirit and dedication of high school volleyball in the region. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying final!
