Los Medanos College kicked off its conference play in a positive manner against Yuba College, overcoming their difficulties and finishing off strong.

The Mustangs came into the game with a 4-9 non-conference record, but won the match 3-1. The team finished the last set strong, eight points ahead of their opponents. They could have also sweeped the 49ers in the third set, but narrowly lost by four points with the final score in the set 25-21.

The start of the game did not reflect the outcome as LMC was trailing Yuba for most of the set, at one point down eight points, but were able to fight back and claim the first set.

“We can handle adversity well,” said Mustang Mercedes Nicholson. “I think we all came out and worked together and got it done.”

Nicholson, who got 13 kills, was a constant nuisance to the opposing team.

During the second set Los Medanos came out strong putting five consecutive points on the board. Jazlyn Avelino was constantly involved in the play, finishing off kills for her team, getting eight in total for the game. The Mustangs were almost always in control and never looked like they were losing their grip on the game. They finished the set 25-19 and set themselves up nicely for the sweep, but the 49ers had other thoughts in mind.  

Yuba’s Iibero Connar Lopez got a hat trick of aces to start off the set. Afterwards, LMC kept it a close set throughout with the lead going back and forth. Soon after, Yuba was able to capitalize on some of the errors made by the Mustangs towards the end and won 25-21.

The final set was where LMC showed what they are made of. Again, LMC asserted its dominance with Avelino delivering a big set for her team. Yuba also helped dig its own hole by making multiple errors that ultimately ended in their downfall.

“When we control the ball and eliminate our errors. We do pretty good when we don’t do that we don’t do so good. At times we’re our worst enemy and at times we’re our best friend.” said head coach Lou Panzella. “Both teams battled pretty well.”

For the Mustangs’ next game they will be travelling to Napa Valley for their second Bay Valley Conference game on Sept.19.