MEXICO - Fulton sophomore middle hitter Jaiden Saunders posted four kills Thursday night as the Lady Hornets ended the regular season with a 25-15, 25-13 NCMC triumph over rival Mexico.
Sophomore outside hitter Kate Pani added six aces and five digs for Fulton (11-15-2, 6-4 North Central Missouri Conference), while senior setter Kenzie Shaw tallied 13 assists.
"Winning always feels good, but I don't know if we played that well, especially since we see Mexico again in the first round of district play next week," Lady Hornets head coach Megan Youse said. "I was glad we were able to run some plays and get some good serves in.
"I believe we have better play in us."
Fulton's junior varsity (7-9) topped off its season with a 25-14, 25-17 victory over the Lady Bulldogs. Junior setter Colleen Van Norman logged 10 aces and 10 assists, while sophomore libero Kileigh Davis registered five digs.
Fulton, earning the second seed, will square off against No. 7 Mexico for the third time this season when the rivals tangle in the first round of the Class 3, District 13 Tournament at 6:30 p.m. Monday in Boonville. The Lady Hornets also downed the Lady Bulldogs in a 25-9, 25-11 NCMC win Sept. 14 in Fulton.
"We have to go in playing controlled, with a fast tempo," Youse said. "We can't be lackluster and we can't go in expecting to win. It's anybody's game - that's the reason for a (tournament) bracket.
"I hope our players are excited about potentially winning a district title. I know I am."