By Gerry Steele

gsteele@bakercityherald.com

UNITY – Burnt River dropped its season-opening nonleague volleyball match at Spray/Mitchell Thursday.

The Lady Bulls fell 25-17, 25-22, 25-19.

Despite the loss, Burnt River coach Tonia Humbert was happy with the first match.

“I was very pleased with our first game,” she said. “We didn’t come home with a win but the girls played very well. We were able to effectively execute our 6-2 offense despite the fact that the team just learned it this week.”

Humbert said sophomore Shea Swindlehurst stepped up and had a stellar performance with great serving and tough net play.

“She played with a level of maturity that I had never seen before. Junior Lucy Marlow’s serving was exceptional,” Humbert said.

“She kept the momentum in our favor several times during the game. Valeria Orsoni had her debut as a setter. She had some beautiful assists that allowed Selina Leinhard to put down some major kills.”

Humbert said the loss could be attributed to mental errors, mostly with regards to serving.

“I expect this will correct itself with time as the girls gain experience,” she said.

Burnt River hosts Pine-Eagle on Friday.