Making history
BUTLER TWP — Butler's boys volleyball team capped the best section record in its 25-year history Thursday night by defeating an old nemesis.
The Golden Tornado overcame a loss in the first set to dispatch the Raiders 3-1 by scores of 25-27, 25-16, 25-21 and 25-15.
Butler (15-3, 10-2) had already defeated the Raiders earlier this season.
“We may have swept them in the first few years of our program,” said Tornado coach Lew Liparulo, “but even if we did, it's been a long time. They have been dominant against us in recent years.”
Despite falling to the Raiders in Thursday's opening set, Liparulo was very confident after his team's late effort.
Butler dominated early on in the second set, opening up a 10-2 lead with senior Tyler Rankin behind the service line for seven straight points.
Senior Nash Bryan starred for the Tornado in the final two sets, totaling nine kills, including one that ended the third set.
SV senior rightside hitter Kyle Martini led the Raiders with 16 kills.
Both teams will compete in the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs, which begin next week.
The Raiders (8-6, 7-5) enter postseason play with question marks.
Following its historic regular season, Butler has high hopes for the playoffs.
Read the full story in Friday's Butler Eagle.
