This article by Cody Elliott of the Daily News-Record was published Sept. 14, 2021 here. Feature photo by Daniel Lin/ DN-R

It may have been just what Eastern Mennonite needed.

The Flames put together a strong all-around performance and earned their first victory of the young season with a thrilling 27-25, 18-25, 25-22, 24-26, 15-12 win over Miller School on Tuesday in Blue Ridge Conference volleyball action in front of a raucous crowd at EMS.

It was also the first win in the career of Flames coach Meredith Hall.

“I’m so thrilled with how well the girls played tonight,” Hall said. “They have been working hard the last few weeks and tonight it all came together. Their energy on the court tonight was amazing. I’m just so happy to have our first win under our belt and I’m looking forward to seeing how we continue to grow this season.”

Malia Bauman led Eastern Mennonite (1-3, 1-1 Blue Ridge) with eight kills, 11 digs, and five aces while Brinna Pennybacker finished with nine kills, a pair of blocks and a dig in the victory.

Also chipping in for the Flames was Joelle Blosser with nine digs and three blocks, Bri Showlater with six digs, Rachelle Martin with three aces and a trio of kills and Sidney Rhodes with 20 assists and four digs.