The William Byrd volleyball team played the top two teams in the Blue Ridge District in the past week and came up a little short. Byrd played undefeated Lord Botetourt at home last Thursday, then traveled to Northside for a game against the second place Vikings on Tuesday.

Against LB the girls lost in three sets, 25-10, 25-23 and 25-15. Mary Kate Price led the defense with eight digs and Maddy Nance worked hard at the net, coming up with four blocks.

“We came up a little short but our girls fought for every point,” said coach Allison Thornton.

On Tuesday Byrd was Northside. Byrd started off strong with a 26-24 win in the first set but the Vikings rallied to win the next three, 25-19, 25-19 and 25-22, for the win.

Lauren Heck had a great game, leading the team with nine kills, 11 digs, and four aces. Alison Stoehr had four kills and two blocks.

Now 6-13, the girls hope to finish up their season strong next week with games at William Fleming Tuesday, then back home a week from tonight for “Senior Night” against Staunton River.