Women’s Volleyball: Roadrunners rally to beat Antelope Valley in opener

Rio Hondo College dropped the first set in its season-opener at Antelope Valley College but rallied to win the final three to earn a 3-1 victory over the Marauders on Wednesday.

The Roadrunners fell 21-25 in the opener, but battled 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 to seal the win.

"It was a great start to the season," said Rio Hondo head coach Teddi Esko. "Everyone contributed to our win against AVC."

Esko cited the solid play out of returning outside hitter Mara Sanchez, setter Aliah Trujillo, middle Danielle Betancourt and libero Janine Coria. "Newcomer Alina Velo was unstoppable at the net," Esko added.

Sanchez posted 7 kills and 13 digs, Trujillo served up 3 aces to go with 16 assists, Betancourt contributed 6 kills, while Coria had 15 digs. Velo totaled 5 blocks (2 solo) and 7 kills. Vania Maciel slammed down a team-best 8 kills and Ashley Liv also had 16 assists.

The Roadrunners (1-0) return to action on Friday (Sep. 30) when they will play a pair of matches at Orange Coast College. Rio Hondo faces Glendale Community College at 4 p.m. followed by a 6 p.m. match vs. host OCC.