Osborn’s heroics lift Sikeston past East Prairie in regular-season finale

Sikeston’s Rudy Osborn (25) spikes the ball for a powerful kill during a 3-2 win at East Prairie on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

EAST PRAIRIE, Mo. — In a gripping showdown that marked the culmination of the regular season, Sikeston emerged victorious at East Prairie with a 3-2 win on Monday, Oct. 21.

The match, characterized by its back-and-forth nature, showcased the resilience and skill of both teams, ultimately highlighting the Lady Bulldogs’ (9-17-0) determination to close the season on a high note.

“To be honest, there was a lot of sloppy play tonight,” said Sikeston coach Steve Beydler. “When you play a team that does a lot of free balls and tips, we fell back into playing like they do. We just had to play our game and they came through when needed.”

The evening began with the Lady Eagles (13-10-1) taking the first set 25-20, thanks to the standout performances of Olivia Hayes, Jonna Rice, and Sydney Aycock.

Hayes, who has been a consistent force, delivered the set-clinching kill, setting the tone for a competitive match.

Sikeston, however, rallied to claim the second set 25-14, with Leighton Copeland delivering three consecutive aces to help the team build a cushion and a powerful set-clinching kill.

The third set proved to be the most tightly contested, with East Prairie narrowly edging out Sikeston 26-24, once again led by Hayes’ decisive play.

The fourth set saw Sikeston regain momentum, winning 25-21 with a clinching kill by Ruby Osborn. Osborn’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, particularly in the final set, where she dominated with eight kills, contributing significantly to Sikeston’s 15-4 victory. Her overall contribution of 20 kills, five digs, two blocks, and an ace underscored her pivotal role in the team’s success.

“[Osborn] played well all night, but she came through like a beast in that final set,” Beydler said. “We ran the gameplan very well in the last set and you saw what happened.”

While Osborn’s dominant performance was a key factor in Sikeston’s victory, the Lady Bulldogs’ success was also due to the contributions of several other players.

Kennedy Watson continued to be a reliable setter, providing 41 assists, 19 digs, and two kills. Her ability to distribute the ball effectively helped Sikeston’s hitters find opportunities to score.

Copeland also played a crucial role, contributing 19 digs, six kills, five aces, and an assist.

Aubreigh Landers added to the offensive firepower with 10 kills and three digs.

The Lady Bulldogs’ defense was anchored by Bailey Null, who recorded 22 digs, two aces, and an assist. Her ability to read the game and respond to East Prairie’s attacks was vital in keeping Sikeston in contention during the closely contested sets.

Ava Martinez also contributed significantly with 11 digs, an ace, and an assist.

Sikeston received the No. 7 seed in the Class 4, District 1 Tournament at Farmington and will take on No. 2 seed Farmington (18-10) on Wednesday, Oct. 23.

East Prairie received the No. 3 in the Class 2, District 1 Tournament at Malden and will face No. 6 seed Caruthersville (3-11-0) on Thursday, Oct. 24.