In Saturday’s double header versus Ronan and Deer Lodge, another game of experience made the Vals a tough opponent in the second match.

For the second week in a row the Vals played Ronan, they lost in three sets, 22-25, 19-25, 15-25.

“We continue to gel as a team, unfortunately we were unable to overcome our inexperience,” BHS volleyball coach Tracy Wicklund said. “Ronana is a very enthusiastic team that plays with high energy and good, consistent serving.”

The Vals also had some players they lost to injury that hampered their chances at winning Saturday’s games.

Wicklund said the team played much better against Deer Lodge. This time they lost in four sets, and won their second set 25-21. The first set was close at 23-25 and the third and fourth were at 16-25 and 19-25.

“The girls showed more determination and we gave them a tough match,” Wicklund said.

The Vals were unable to run their normal 6-2 offense in the Ronan matchup, having lost two of their three setters, but against Deer Lodge were able to get into a rythym and play their game. Wicklund said the Vals have improved dramatically over the last few weeks, especially in their serve/receive game and serving consistency.

“We have a lot to work on,” Wicklund said. “But if we continue to improve every game, we can do some damage.”

The Vals stay home for the next two games against Eureka at 4 p.m. on Thursday and Florence at 1 p.m. on Saturday.