Thursday night in Weare felt like a mirror match — two teams with similar records, similar energy, and way more talent than their win columns suggest. John Stark and Plymouth both play gritty, defense-first volleyball, built around long rallies and reliable first contact. It was the kind of matchup that could go either way.

But after getting absolutely steamrolled in the opening set, John Stark flipped the script. The Generals found another gear and never looked back, taking control of the match behind an inspired trio of Isabella Donnelly, Jenna Sinclair, and Chloe Boswell. Donnelly anchored the middle with a calm presence that steadied the floor, while Sinclair and Boswell swung with purpose, forcing Plymouth out of system and shifting the tone completely.

Plymouth had its moments, too. Setter Elliot Sutherland had a solid performance driving the offense, libero Hazel Bassingthwaite was everywhere defensively, and middle Sophia Brown gave the Bobcats a much-needed spark at the net. They didn’t make it easy, they just couldn’t quite sustain their rhythm once John Stark caught fire.

Both programs remind you how deceiving records can be. They’re talented, well-coached, and dangerous when things are clicking. The challenge, as it often is for teams still building their identity, is consistency — learning not to let momentum, or the opponent, decide the night.

In front of a packed Thursday crowd, this one was a quiet gem on the schedule. Maybe not a matchup many had circled, but for anyone who loves hard-fought, honest volleyball, it was exactly the kind of game that makes this time of year so good.

Kennidy Asche brings you all the play-by-play, while Jen Chick-Ruth brings you all the highlights and the post-game interview/celebration with the entire team.

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