Union-Bulletin

WALLA WALLA - Dayton rolled to a four-set victory over Walla Walla Valley Academy Tuesday night at WWVA, 25-22, 25-22, 20-25, 25-20 in a match that was closely contested throughout.

The Knights had to play without one of their key players Kelsie Schafer due to illness, which forced WWVA to change its rotations and lineups.

"We were right in there," said WWVA head coach Scott Schafer. "Last weekend was a big weekend for us, and I think the girls were a little tired so that hurt us. Having to change everything up without Kelsie was a big change because not everyone was familiar playing with each other."

WWVA got 16 kills and three blocks from Kristen Rassmusen and 24 assists from Broklyn Larson.

Dayton was led by 10 kills and seven digs from McKaylea Bickelhaupt, 16 assists and two aces from Darcy Hall and 15 digs from Nicole Lambert. Kayla Turner posted the high kill night for the Bulldogs with 15, and she also notched nine assists. Amanda Melton, Sarah Mascall, and Shelby Smith all had four kills, while Jessica Tate finished with five digs for the Bulldogs.

"A win is a win for us," said Dayton head coach Shannon Turner. "Still, we struggled with our communication at times, but we're in a good spot overall."

There is no rest for the weary on the WWVA side. The Knights host Tri-Cities Prep today.

Dayton, which is now 6-3 in league play, next takes the court against Liberty Christian at home in a crucial match Thursday.