Londun Christensen is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Phoenix Christian High School for AZPreps365.com

Phoenix Christian lost at home to Phoenix Country Day in a three-set match (25-18, 25-9, 25-20) on Wednesday. The two-time defending 2A champion Eagles' bench depth and strong strikers helped the 2A champion cruised leading to a unbeaten 8-0 start.

Phoenix Country Day started on a 4-0 scoring run from attacking errors by Phoenix Christian (3-3). But the Cougars kept the score close throughout the set. 

In the second and third sets, the Eagles continued to dominate as they kept the ball in play and high energy throughout the entire match.

“We push even when we are losing.” senior outside hitter Jacqueline Vega De La Cruz said. “We are very much fighters.” 

Although they lost the match, the Cougars held their weight with smart defensive plays and several offensive rallies. 

Key factor for this accomplishment was a change in game strategy by Phoenix Christian head coach Lyndee Johnson.

“This game I'm changing it up because PCD is really strong. We need a bigger block because we're little. I'm trying something new in this game so we’ll see how it goes.” Johnson said.

Senior middle Melanie Selamu had PCD's team-high three kills. Junior Serenity Manuel and senior Berenice Fajardo were each contributed two aces.

“Since I’m a setter my attitude affects the whole team.” Fajardo explained. “I have to keep a positive attitude and encourage my team to figure out the next plays and keep it going.”

Phoenix Christian plays next at Mayer High School at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.