SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 - COVINGTON
Covington has beefed up its non-league schedule over the past few years against the likes of Versailles, Anna, Russia, and several other traditionally strong programs.

And Monday the Lady Buccs faced one of those programs who have a long standing tradition of making deep runs in the state tournament and on several occasions winning state titles - the Lehman Cavaliers.

But Covington was up to the task as it overcame a sluggish start to sweep Lehman in three sets 25-23, 25-15, 25-13.

"We played with aggressive energy tonight," said Covington coach Lonnie Cain. "Hopefully we can keep building our momentum throughout the next few weeks."

Lehman built and early 11-7 lead in the opening set, but Covington gradually chipped away at the deficit until finally capturing a 22-21 lead. The Lady Buccs then pushed the lead to 24-21 before Lehman scored two straight points to cut the margin to a single point, 24-23.

But Covington was able to put the game away on a powerful kill by freshman Carlie Besecker.

Covington then carried the momentum throughout the remainder of the match - dominating the second set 25-15 and closing the show in the third set 25-13.

The win improves Covington's overall record to 7-5. The Lady Buccs host Bradford in a CCC match on Tuesday evening and travel to Arcanum on Thursday.

Covington stats:
Nigella Reck - 2 aces, 16 kills, 2 block assists, 5 digs
Ellery Reck - 3 aces, 29 assists, 7 digs
Carlie Besecker - 8 kills, 1 solo block, 1 block assist, 11 digs
Lauren York - 1 ace, 1 kill, 13 digs
Emmaline Kiser - 5 kills, 2 solo blocks, 3 block assists
Alyssa Kimmel - 1 ace, 5 digs
Claire Fraley - 1 kill
Hillary Hoying - 5 digs

Covington JV defeated Lehman 2-1.