The Atlantic Trojans earned a hard-fought 3-1 win over the Exira-EHK Spartans Monday night. After dropping the first set, the Trojans roared back to win the next three sets. Despite capturing three sets in a row, it was, for the most part, a back-and-forth affair. Throughout the sets, there were numerous lead changes and even a large comeback. However, Atlantic’s ability to spread the ball around made the difference.

Set one started as a back-and-forth affair. Neither team seemed able to grab the momentum, as the largest lead on both sides halfway through the set was two. However, with Brooklyn Snider at the service line, the Spartans were able to grab the momentum. Led by Jaelynn Petersen, Taryn Petersen, and Zoey Rasmussen, the Spartans built a cushion, leading by as much as eight. Although the Trojans attempted to mount a comeback, the Spartans were able to hold them off, taking set one 25-19.

Early on in set two, it looked as if the momentum had carried over. The Spartans got off to a 4-0 run, but from there on out, the Trojans controlled much of the rest of set two. Clarie Schroeder was excellent from the service line all night, but was a part of a Trojan run that changed the tide. Throughout the night, Atlantic never relied on one singular person. The front row combinations of Zoey Kirchoff, Adler Bruce, and Brynn Lamp all contributed. Freshman Reese Harlan also played in big role in offense, bringing the right amount of power as the Trojans took set two 25-15.

Set three was much like set one. Both teams went back and forth, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage. Although Atlantic started well, for a solid portion of set three, it was Exira-EHK that seemed to be on the front foot. However, the Trojans rallied late to escape with a 25-20 win and a 2-1 lead. While they escaped set three, set four was arguably one of their best sets of the night. They jumped out to their largest lead of the night leading 18-8. However, the scappy Spartans didn’t go out without a fight. Extra-EHK went on a 12-1 run to take a lead, but it was short-lived as the Trojans rebounded to take the set 25-22 and the match 3-1 for their seventeenth win of the season. Head coach Alyssa Boltz praised her team’s ability to work together as a unit.

Despite blowing a lead late in set four, the message was simple.

The Trojans have just one game remaining on the regular season schedule at home against St. Albert. Heading into the postseason, Boltz says continuing to instill belief in their ability is at the forefront of preparation.

While the Trojans return home for a home match against St. Albert, the 10-11 Spartans will begin their preparations for the Rolling Valley Conference tournament, which begins on Saturday.