GAITHERSBURG -- For Western, trying to return the Quince Orchard serves proved tough, coping with its speed difficult and trying to do something at the net nearly impossible.
In short, it was a long night.
Quince Orchard relied on its speed, power and teamwork to dominate from start to finish and roll to a 15-5, 15-6, 15-0 victory over Western in the Class 4A state semifinal last night at Watkins Mill High School.
Quince Orchard (18-1), which advances to the state final on Saturday at Catonsville Community College, needed only 54 minutes to defeat Western (18-1). This was Western's second consecutive trip to the state semifinals. Last year, eventual champion Severna Park beat the Doves in three games.
Quince Orchard gave Western trouble in nearly every area of play. The Cougars' bullet-like serves and strong net play kept Western in retreat much of the night.
Western coach Shirley Williams said the Doves suffered because of their lack of experience in playing teams of this caliber.
"My only disappointment in my team is that I was not able to schedule teams [like this]," said Williams. "They need to play against teams that are hitting against them."
Brooke Olsen led the way for Quince Orchard. In the final game, she served 15 straight points.