Outlaws make final eight

The Lady Outlaws played in a grueling, intense five-game match against Ridgeview on Friday, November 2, and emerged victorious with scores of 25-23, 22-25, 23-25, 25-20 and 15-10.

Ridgeview proved to be a very strong opponent and were solid at all positions.

"I'm sure they were the toughest first round in the playoffs," said Coach Miki McFadden.

Each set was a battle with the scores going back and forth the entire time. In the fifth and final set the score was tied 10-10 and a time-out was called.

McFadden told The Nugget that while they were in the huddle Shannon Fouts said, "I want this so bad."

The Outlaws went back onto the floor with Fouts at the service line. Shannon served the last five points for the win.

"Shannon served spots on the court and served with confidence," said

McFadden.

Megan Minke was in the front row at the time and put down a powerful shot for the 14th point and then blocked an overpass to win the match.

"Megan came through when it mattered and really came through for us at the end," said McFadden. "We'd get down and she'd come back and take charge."

Fouts finished the match with 55 assists, two aces, two kills and three digs. McFadden was pleased with Fouts' performance and told The Nugget that her leadership and determination really came through.

Minke and Duree Standley each tallied 17 kills on the night and recorded two and three blocks, respectively.

Nila Lukens, at five-feet-seven-inches, matched up against six-foot tall players and was able to put the ball straight down.

Lukens had 15 kills and finished with a .500 hitting percentage.

"Nila was awesome," said McFadden. "She was so consistent in a pressure game as a sophomore."

Savannah Spear played libero and posted 14 digs on the night. McFadden said that Spear played aggressively and ran down some good balls.

Allie Spear had a great all-around game and recorded 13 digs and three kills in the match.

Kristina Johns had a solid night with three aces, four kills and five digs. McFadden stated that Johns was definitely a player to be counted on.

When the Outlaws got their last point in the final set the girls hit the floor in celebration.

McFadden said, "I think I had my highest jump of my career. I jumped up out of my seat and ran and put my arms around the girls. It was a mixture of excitement and relief. The match was so stressful and close and back and forth. It was hard on me! It's so nice to come through with a victory. Hopefully, this will help us in the end and prepare us for the weekend. We're going to get back to work and sharpen the basics so we're ready."

Sisters will head to Lane Community College for the final eight on Friday, November 9. The Outlaws will face Astoria on Friday at 3:15 p.m.