“That being said, I thought we passed and moved well as an overall defensive unit when you look at that match as a whole,” said Kuechenmeister.
Senior Anna Schlaak led the Panthers on offense and defense, totaling 22 kills, 10 aces and eight digs.
"What an individual performance to start the season,” said Kuechenmeister. “With 22 kills, she hit extremely well, but her defense and serving was just as good. She ended with 10 aces on the match, which is almost unheard of. A tremendous way to begin her senior campaign."
Carlie Wagner had nine kills and three aces for NRHEG. Noelle Bartness totaled 27 set assists. Harlee Vokoun had four kills and eight digs, Tori Raimann eight digs.
The Panthers opened Gopher Conference play Tuesday, Sept. 6 at Waterville.
"WEM had a tough team last year and we expect much of the same this fall,” said Kuechenmeister. “It's always fun when two quality conference teams get together. When you add in the fact that it's a rivalry, you know it's going to be barn burner, and we look forward to the challenge."
The Panthers play at Blooming Prairie Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Mankato East Invitational Saturday, Sept. 10 and at LeSueur-Henderson Tuesday, Sept. 13.
