Gabe Stark
Reporter

Trenton showed improvement after a slow start, but could not overcome serving struggles in a straight-set volleyball loss at Kirksville, falling 25-12, 25-22, 25-19.

Alexis Bonnett led Trenton with 16 digs and two aces. Riah Vehikite recorded five blocks and five kills, while Sarai Birkhead contributed nine assists.

Despite the loss, coach Bradley Ewald saw encouraging stretches as the Bulldogs grew more comfortable on the court.

“About midway through the first set, it felt like we finally shook off the funk we were in and just relaxed and played volleyball,” the coach said.

Trenton made the final two sets more competitive, finishing within three points in the second set and six in the third.

The Bulldogs finished with a serving percentage of 76%. Ewald said defensive coverage also remained an area to improve with a couple of players sidelined by injuries.

“Defensively, we are still working through some coverage issues while we have a couple players banged up on the sidelines,” he said. “So, with those two things in consideration, I was much happier with our performance in the last two sets.”

Trenton’s junior varsity also lost in straight sets, 25-20, 25-13.

Trenton’s record is now 3-7-2. They will be competing in the Hy-Vee Invitational Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 26.