Tyler Obalek is an ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Cactus High School for AZpreps365.com

GOODYEAR — Coach Debbie Martin’s Cactus Lady Cobras saw their eight-game win streak come to an end Wednesday evening when they were swept by the Estrella Foothills Wolves, 25-21, 25-20, 25-20.

“Well, to be honest with you, it’s the first time we really had competition,” Martin said.

The Wolves’ attack was in full force, finishing with 42 kills and seven aces.

Midway through the second set, the Cobras went on a 4-0 run to close the gap, but strong spikes and verticality from senior outside hitter Sadie Synder pushed Estrella to set point.

Cactus was overmatched by Snyder’s dominant play. She competed in all three sets, thwarting any comeback attempts by the Cobras. Synder recorded a match-high 15 kills and two digs. Senior Kaylee O’Conner added 12 kills and four digs. The duo proved essential to the Wolves’ success.

“Going into the week, we knew it was going to be a challenge, but we stepped up and worked for every single point and went out and were ourselves,” Synder said.

Wolves coach Michael “MJ” Mattison praised Snyder’s contributions.

“Sadie is very exceptional, and we’re really excited to have her," Mattison said. "She’s really been a big part of our success.” 

In Snyder’s four years with the program, the team’s identity has evolved.

“We’ve really made this school a volleyball school now,” Mattison said.

The Cobras, meanwhile, were led by the aggressive play of junior Laila Long, who posted a team-high 11 kills and 11 digs. Cactus struggled with eight service errors that hindered its scoring chances.

“We need to work on staying disciplined and trusting each other, and bettering the ball,” Martin said.

Senior Faith Connell acknowledged she didn’t play up to her standards.

“I think I need to work on my defense. That’s the most important part,” Connell said.

Connell, a senior, said she’s trying to balance competitiveness with enjoyment.

“Having the same competitive mindset and also wanting to have fun and win,” Connell said.

Defensively, the Lady Cobras’ back row held its own, outblocking the Wolves, 7-3. Freshman Addison Martin and senior Audrey Morgan each recorded two blocks.

Senior Ziara Pauli  emphasized team camaraderie despite the loss.

“I want to win. I want to play for our team. I play for our bunch of seniors,” Pauli said.

Pauli finished with one ace and 10 digs.

The Lady Cobras will look to bounce back when they host the Agua Fria Owls on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

The Wolves head to Agua Fria on Tuesday to take on the Owls at 6 p.m.