Rising stars shine as Portageville overcomes Twin Rivers

Portageville's Taryn Irby (22) spikes a kill in a 3-0 win over Twin Rivers on Monday, Sep. 23, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

PORTAGEVILLE, Mo. — Despite losing several key players from its recent district championship dynasty, Portageville has shown no signs of slowing down, easily defeating Twin Rivers in straight sets on Monday, Sep. 23.

The Lady Bulldogs (20-3-2) continue to turn potential into performance, displaying a seamless blend of skill, teamwork and determination that has kept their winning streak alive.

"The girls' confidence has skyrocketed,” said Portageville coach Sasha Kellams. “They're working hard and always willing to do whatever it takes to win. We've got some real beasts out there on the court."

Portageville's Glo Farmer (11) spikes a kill in a 3-0 win over Twin Rivers on Monday, Sep. 23, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

Portageville jumped out to a 2-0 lead after a kill from Glo Farmer. The Lady Royals (4-9-2) briefly took an advantage, only for Lexi Priggel to break a 4-4 tie with an ace.

An ace from Mia Scherer and kills from Bryleigh Adams and Maggie Priggels increased the lead to 11-7 and the Lady Bulldogs closed the set on a 12-2 run to win 25-10.

One of the most critical elements of Portageville's success is the exceptional playmaking ability of Scherer, who finished the match with 31 assists, seven digs and one kill.

Portageville's Juju Priggel (9) serves in a 3-0 win over Twin Rivers on Monday, Sep. 23, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

Scherer's performance is not just about the numbers; it's about her ability to read the game and make split-second decisions that benefit the team.

“[Scherer] has been working hard the entire offseason,” Kellams said. “She's the quarterback of our team, and her ability to set up our girls for success is invaluable. She's a hustler who will do anything to win, and we're incredibly fortunate to have her.”

Taryn Irby’s breakout effort in the second set highlighted her growth as a player. She finished with a team-leading 13 kills, while also adding six digs, two assists and a block. Irby’s contributions were a major factor in Portageville’s ability the control the second set and cruise to a 25-13 win.

Portageville faced a tougher challenge in the third set, falling behind 10-4. But key plays from Adams, Irby, and Maggie Priggel tied it at 12-12.

Regaining composure, the Lady Bulldogs closed the match out strong on a dominant 21-3 run, with Maggie Priggel delivering the match-clinching kill.

“We came out flat but they were able to overcome it,” Kellams said. “I’m super proud of them for that.”

Like Irby, Maggie Priggel is another player who has made significant strides in her game. Last season, she played sparingly and appeared timid. Now, she hits with power, aggression, and confidence, embodying the growth and development that has become a hallmark of this team. Priggel finished the match with 10 kills and an assist.

“Overall, we’ve been working on communication and felt like they did a good job with that,” Kellams said. “There are still some things to work on. We’re not to the point we want to be, but they played very well.”

Portageville's other top contributors were equally impressive. Farmer had 11 kills, nine digs, and an assist, showcasing her steady performance. Juju Priggel added 12 digs, three kills, two aces, and an assist. Adams contributed six digs, two kills, two aces, and two assists. Lexi Priggel chipped in with six digs, three assists, and two aces, while Liza Priggel had one kill.

Even when they encountered setbacks or faced adversity, the team’s positive attitude and support for each other united them and strengthened their bond.

It’s clear that the culture and environment at Portageville create a unique atmosphere that fosters success and a love for the game.

“This is a fun group,” Kellams said. “Sometimes we have to reign them in a little bit because of their goofy personalities. But that’s just who they are.”

The Lady Bulldogs also secured a 3-0 win at Caruthersville (2-6-0) on Tuesday, Sep. 24.

Portageville travels to Oran (0-9-0) while Twin Rivers is on the road at Senath-Hornersville (5-9-2) on Thursday, Sep. 26.