COURTLAND-Playing at home against Richmond Christian on Sept. 16 in a VISAA Virginia Commonwealth Conference volleyball match, the Lady Raiders of Southampton Academy found themselves down 2-0 after the first two sets were in the books. They had lost the first sets 25-12 and 13-25, but determined to turn the table, they rallied to win the next three 25-15, 25-22 and 15-10 (3-2). This is the second time this year the Lady Raiders have come back from a 2-set deficit to win a conference match.

In the effort, Mason Pope served at 100 percent over 14 serves, had 5 kills, 5 blocks and 25 digs. Sarah Best, also with 14 serves, had 2 aces and a 100 percent serving rate. Best also had a block.

Madison Dunn and Allison Mathews both had 5 digs.

“We are currently ranked first in the conference at 5-1 (.833), as we have played the most conference matches,” said Raiders Head Coach Crystal Butler. “Not too bad so far for a rebuilding year!”

On Thursday, the Raiders suffered a loss against Portsmouth Christian 2-3. The scores were 25-21, 23-25, 16-25, 25-22 and 14-16.

“Overall a tight match throughout,” Butler said. “Played hard, we just need to be consistent at focusing and playing our game.”

Mason Pope had 13 digs, 15 kills and 3 blocks. Chelsea Beltrami had 3 aces. Haley Drewry had 10 assists and 4 kills. Rachael Hopkins had 12 digs.