Very quietly, Orange volleyball has done something it hasn’t accomplished in at least 11 years.
Win at Riverside.
The Panthers not only defeated the Pirates on Margratha Chambers Court on Wednesday night, but they swept them 3-0 on scores of 25-15, 25-21 and 25-17.
To say Orange’s luck against Riverside in Durham has been limited is an understatement. The Pirates had won the last four matches it hosted against Orange, conceding just three sets in the wins. Last year, Riverside swept Orange 30-28, 29-27 and 25-19.
The Panthers (3-0) were dominant on Monday behind a strong performance from Bailey Lucas, who amassed two aces, nine kills, six assists and seven digs. Caroline Compton had one ace, 15 assists, and five digs. Faith Foushee finished with one assist and eleven digs.
Senior Avery Riley added five kills. Sophomore Emma Clements chipped in 13 digs, which led the team.
With the win over the Pirates, the Panthers completed a sweep of Durham’s remaining 4-A teams. On Monday, Orange swept Jordan.
Orange starts Big 8 Conference play on Thursday night against new league rival East Chapel Hill in Hillsborough. The JV game is at 5 with the varsity game to follow shortly afterwards.