Lady Braves sink Francis Marion

By Robert Kelley
Assistant Sports Editor

            The Lady Braves’ were victorious in their first Peach Belt Conference game of the season Sept. 20 slipping past visiting Francis Marion 3-1 (31-29, 27-30, 30-27, 30-26) in women’s volleyball action.
            Both teams combined for over 100 total kills in a long-lasting contest.
            The Lady Braves’ were strong at the net totaling 14 blocks with Jessica Hartley and Whitney Hanlin combining for 10 of that total.
            UNCP (11-9, 1-0) head coach Jeff Billington was pleased that his team could come out and win their first conference game.
             “It’s always nice to play your first conference game at home. All of these games are tough, especially versus a tough opponent like Francis Marion,” Billington said.
            The schedule sets up nicely for the Lady Braves as their win against Francis Marion was the second of four consecutive home games to begin the Peach Belt schedule.
            Senior playmaker Rebekah Neisborella led the Lady Braves with 15 kills while Hartley and Rachel Young each added 12 respectively.
            “Rebekah played exceptionally well for us tonight,” said Billington. “I thought our whole team gave a great effort tonight, as did Francis Marion.”
            “We are continuing to improve as a team,” he added.