GVB: Royals fall to Santiago in CIF quarters

The San Marcos girls volleyball season came to an end on Saturday, as the Royals lost in four sets against second-seeded Corona-Santiago in the quarterfinals of the CIF Division 1A playoffs. The scores were 25-16, 25-27, 25-15, 25-15.

Seniors Anika Wilson and Emily Allen led the way for the Royals with 14 and 9 kills, respectively. Junior Chloe Allen added 8 kills and senior Emma Harrah added six.

Sophomore setter Gabi Peoples had 37 assists and led the team with 11 digs.

After splitting the first two sets, Santiago jump out to a 17-8 advantage in the third, taking advantage of its height advantage and capitalizing on San Marcos defensive lapses.

“Santiago is a really good team. They had a very fast offense with a lot of hitters,” San Marcos coach Erica Menzel said. “The setter was the best we have seen all season. They had great defense and ball control.”

The Sharks didn’t let up in the fourth set and earned a berth in the semifinals.

“We played with a lot of heart,” Menzel said. “We had a great season. The girls should be very proud of what they accomplished this year. I’m very proud of each and everyone one of the girls on this team.”