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Late run lifts Larkin over Elgin

In a match marked by long runs, Larkin had the last one. The strong serving of Brianna Stewart keyed a late 8-0 spurt as the Royals got past Elgin, 25-20, 23-25, 15-19, in nonconference action at Larkin Thursday.

Larkin's freshman combo of Stewart and Olivia Kofie were solid hitting and blocking. Each had 7 kills to lead the Royals.

After a back-and-forth first game, Elgin used a 10-0 run to take control midway through the second game. Heather Gawaluck was at the service line for the last 9 points.

Elgin was led by Briana Hamilton with 7 kills.

Larkin led just 16-15 in game 3 when an Elgin error gave them a 2-point lead and the serve. Stewart served 6 straight points, including a pair of aces and 3 kills by Kofie.

“Normally I don't talk about the best players because it's a matter of teamwork, said Larkin coach Marcin Dybka. “But I have to say after tonight that hopefully we've found a leader for our team. She (Stewart) served very well, she played well in the front row, and also on defense.

Lexi Smithberg added 5 kills and some strong serving, while Piper Johnson had 3 kills for the Royals (7-21).

Monica Stockman added 4 kills for Elgin.

John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.comLarkin's Diana Castillo and Olivia Kofie celebrate their three-game win over Elgin Thursday.
John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.comLarkin's Piper Johnson digs an Elgin shot Thursday.
John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.comElgin's Briana Hamilton trys to block a shot by Larkin's Blair Threat Thursday.
John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.comElgin's Meghan Chamberlain hits from deep in the court against Larkin Thursday.
John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.comElgin's Meghan Chamberlain shys away from the net as the referee calls a foul against Larkin Thursday.