Rangely Panthers spike De Beque, Hayden

RANGELY I The Lady Panthers defended their house last week. Twice.
Rangely’s volleyball team protected its home court in a match against De Beque on Tuesday, and then took care of Hayden on Friday during homecoming.
Both wins were big.
“De Beque is a sneaky good team,” said Rangely coach Jimmie Mergleman, who gave birth to a baby boy Tuesday. “But we played Panther ball and came out with a win.”
Against Hayden, the Lady Panthers continued their winning ways, playing what their coach called “great defense.”
“The (Hayden) Tigers have a very potent offense and to stop them, you have to have a great defense,” Mergleman said. “We had just that. It was because of the great defensive play that got us that win. We played with great intensity and pride. The girls worked hard and played as a team.”
This week, the Lady Panthers continue with league play, hosting undefeated Vail Christian on Tuesday, then traveling to play rival Meeker on Friday.
“So we have two very tough opponents coming up,” Mergleman said.
While there will be plenty more tests yet to come this season, the Rangely coach is excited about the way her team is coming together. The Lady Panthers are expected to contend for the Western Slope League title this season.
“We have said it week after week, that the girls are starting to mold into a great team and not being consumed by individualism, and that is what it takes to win championships,” Mergleman said. “We still have things to improve on, but we are definitely headed in the right direction.”