Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

WEST PORTSMOUTH — When you’re No. 2, you try harder. When you’re not even No. 2, you try even harder.

The Ironton Lady Fighting Tigers faced the second-seeded Portsmouth West Lady Senators in the Division III sectional finals on Saturday and came away with a stunning five-set upset win.

Ironton won in comeback fashion, 25-19, 26-28, 21-25, 25-21 and 15-8.

“It was a great team effort,” said Ironton coach Beth Campbell.

“We did a great job on the offensive side. It was a great game. Both teams fought hard, even being down in the fourth set 16-11, the girls never stopped believing.”

Lexi Wise led a strong offensive game with 16 kills, D’Laynie Keith had 14 kills and Zakia Lee 12.

Jordan Hannan had 22 assists and Alyssa Lewis had 14.

Also for Ironton, Kayla Easterlng had 15 points including 5 in the final set, Keith had 13 points, Wise and Hannan 12 each, and Lewis and Lee 8 apiece.

The Lady Tigers combined for 42 digs.

“They were not letting the ball hit the floor,” said Campbell. “I am so proud of all the girls — from the floor to the bench. They never quit.

“We had to make a big adjustment early last week wen middle Kenzie Cremeens got hurt and Alyssia Rowe’s job went from defense player to a middle.”

In the district semifinals Wednesday at Waverly High School, South Point plays Adena at 6 p.m. followed by Ironton and Zane Trace.