LIVINGSTON - The Gustine Reds volleyball team, sporting a 1-2 record, found their winning form on August 27, with a convincing 3-1 non-league victory over the Livingston Wolves. Despite a shaky second set, the Reds showed resilience and teamwork, improving their season record to 2-2.

Gustine came out firing on all cylinders, seizing control of the first set with a dominant 25-15 win. However, the Wolves answered back, taking the second set 25-22 and leveling the match. But the Reds, determined to secure the victory, bounced back with renewed energy, taking the final two sets 25-15 and 25-18 to seal the win.

The Reds' success was fueled by several standout performances. Senior Jaclynn Lopes, #8, was a force on the court, racking up 5 kills and 7 aces. Martha Torres, #2, was a defensive stalwart with 2 blocks and contributed 3 kills on the offensive end. The entire team showcased excellent chemistry and enthusiasm throughout the match, a factor that coach Mona Laupua emphasized after the game.

"Overall, the girls played really hard and are getting ready for the season," said Laupua. "I am very proud of them, everybody played and they did a great job."

While the Reds’ momentum was short-lived, as they fell 3-1 to the Dos Palos Broncos the following day, the team’s performance against the Wolves was a promising sign of things to come.

The (2-3) Gustine Reds will look to get back on track and settle an old score when they face their long-time rivals, the (1-2) Orestimba Warriors, at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, September 3, in Gustine. The Reds hope to build on the momentum of their win against Livingston and secure a victory in front of their home crowd.