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Ripon unfazed by Escalon crowd in sweep
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Samantha McCreath (11) reaches for the ball in front of Ripon teammate Makayla Buie after Escalons Hannah Murphy sends it over the net. - photo by GARY JENSEN/GreatShots.SmugMug.com

ESCALON — It is said that records can be thrown out in rivalry games.

This was not the case Tuesday night, as Ripon remained undefeated in Trans Valley League play, sweeping host Escalon 25-11, 25-21, 25-16 and in the process trailing just once at 1-0 to start the second set.

Sam McCreath led the way for Ripon with 14 kills and nine blocks. McCreath had two kills in the final three points of the first set and a block for the final point of the night.  

“This game is always different because Escalon’s crowd always gets behind them and they are really loud,” McCreath said. “It’s a different atmosphere in here – a lot of fun, actually. I like the pressure of coming here, I like owning the pressure, and l like living up to the pressure of coming into this gym.”

Lauren Weibe started the night on a 5-0 service run with an ace and had 19 assists.

“It all starts with the pass,” Weibe said. “And the back row did a great job of that tonight. 

“I took the passes and I mixed it up, moving the set around and then the outside hitters and the middles would do their jobs and put it right where it needed to go.” 

Ashlyn Eisenga played stellar at libero for Ripon (7-0 TVL, 10-2 overall), finsihing with 20 digs, 12 service points and even three assists. 

“We have been working a lot on quick transitions, getting our block up and ready early,” Indians coach Erin Cutino said. “And it’s been paying off. It showed in tonight’s game. “

Breana Barrios added seven kills and three blocks for the Indians, Madison McCreath six kills and four blocks and Rachel Sausedo eight assists.

The Cougars (3-3, 4-11) nearly came back to take the second set, trailing 17-9 and closing to within 23-21 before losing the last two points.

“I think my seniors said a lot in the huddle that second game,” Escalon coach Teresa Williamson said. “That is Jaden Scott and Natalie Bianchi – they are the heart and fire on the court and I think they got in the girls’ heads and said that the game is not over until it is over and the girls just stepped it up.”