CHESAPEAKE — The Chesapeake Lady Panthers have taken their first step.

The Lady Panthers got past the Rock Hill Redwomen in the first round of the Division III sectional volleyball tournament Tuesday in four sets.

Chesapeake won 25-18, 25-23, 19-25 and 25-22 to win the match and will now play in the sectional final at 4 p.m. Saturday at Oak Hill.

“They plays us hard and tough,” said Chesapeake coach Dana Edwards. “It came down to some simple mistakes that allowed us to win it. (Rock Hill coach) Julie Mootz has done a fabulous job with those girls.”

Ashley Miller had four aces, Sarah Rice 55 sets, and Amanda Ruffner registered 12 blocks to lead the Lady Panthers.

Sarah Rice did a great job. She was all over the court,” said Edwards.

“Ruffner is a just a good athlete. Kelsey Dillow and Kristen Webb had the best games of their lives. It was a great team effort.”