EBF Falls to No. 14 Knoxville in Three Sets

Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont struggled to find a steady offensive rhythm against No. 14 Knoxville, falling in three sets during their Sept. 8 volleyball matchup.

Knoxville won 25-11, 25-14, 25-16 as inconsistent passing and unforced errors limited the Rockets’ scoring opportunities.

EBF coach Gladys Genskow said the Rockets spent much of the match on defense. While she was pleased with the team’s digging, the Rockets had trouble turning those defensive plays into an effective attack.

Knoxville’s consistent passing allowed it to run a quick offense and control play at the net, Genskow said.

Kinley Lobberecht led EBF with eight kills on 32 attack attempts. She also recorded two service aces and four digs.

Lindsay Akers added three kills and two digs, while Kinzey Lobberecht finished with two kills and 10 digs. Lanie Batterson contributed one kill and three digs, and Carlie Grove recorded a kill on her lone attack.

Andrea Genskow directed the offense with 11 assists and added six digs. Kenley Albertson contributed another assist.

Morgan Rea matched Kinzey Lobberecht with a team-high 10 digs and went 6-for-7 serving. Laynie Burch finished with eight digs and one ace while serving 8-for-10.

Gracie Long was perfect on all six of her serving attempts and added two digs.

Genskow said the Rockets have several players capable of producing points, but their execution did not allow them to use those options consistently against Knoxville. Unforced errors added to the challenge as EBF worked to put together scoring opportunities.

Moving forward, Genskow said the team will focus on reducing those errors and improving the quality of its passes. More consistent ball control will be needed to give the Rockets a chance to set up and finish attacks.