GLENDALE, Calif. — The Glendale College Vaqueros started their match Friday night with a promising start, taking the first set 25-22 against Cuesta College. Fueled by early momentum and strong play at the net, Glendale looked poised to control the match. However, Cuesta responded with three straight set wins (13-25, 12-25, 17-25) to hand the Vaqueros a 3-1 loss in their home opener at Verdugo Gym.

 

Glendale showed flashes of potential throughout the match. Sarai Ochoa led the offense with 8 kills and anchored the back row with 14 digs, while Eva Portnaya added 7 kills and a pair of solo blocks, finishing with 10 total points. Abigail Yeoh was a steady two-way contributor, collecting 4 kills, 8 assists, 5 digs, and 2 blocks for 7.5 points, while Jessica Casper chipped in 2 solo blocks, 1 block assist, and an ace from the service line.

 

Defensively, Glendale was strong at the net with 6 solo blocks and 4 block assists, while Raelee Lanphear led the team with 20 digs, showing her command of the backcourt. Mika Valiente helped run the offense with 9 assists, and the Vaqueros combined for 4 service aces, one each from Portnaya, Ochoa, Yeoh, and Casper. Despite a dip in offensive rhythm after the first set, the team's energy and hustle remained high throughout the night.

 

The Vaqueros will now turn their focus to sharpening execution and building consistency as they continue the season.

Final Score: Cuesta 3, Glendale 1
Sets: 22-25, 25-13, 25-12, 25-17
Record: Glendale (0-1), Cuesta (1-0)