Spokane, MO (For Ozarks Sports Zone)  -- The Spokane Lady Owls (2-2) defeated the Sparta Lady Trojans (1-2) on Thursday night, 25-16 in the first set and 25-19 in the second. Regardless of the sport, when these two schools get together it is a friendly rivalry and tonight was no different.  The first game saw the lead switch back and forth until a crucial call went in Spokane’s favor and Sparta did not respond well to the momentum shift.

“We didn’t respond well when a call didn’t go our way, which is a sign of a mentally young team," said Sparta coach Emily Winkkle. "We have to learn to play through adversity.” 

In the second set Spokane managed to take advantage of Sparta's inexperience, pulling away to end the match. 

“Even though Spokane is rival game it’s always a fun game to play” said Winkle.

Spokane suffered a tough loss to Hollister on Tuesday night and was looking to learn from their mistakes with improved play. 

“We talked a lot yesterday in practice about mental toughness and I think it showed,” said Spokane coach Callie Sitton. “We supported each other tonight and played much better as a team. Sparta beat us in districts last year, so that was a big motivation for our girls."

Spokane junior Ryleigh Maples led the Lady Owls with 21 assists and 6 aces. 

“Tonight’s win was really big for us. Sparta ended our season last year and since they moved up a class, we knew that this might be our only chance to play them,” said Maples. “I haven’t been making my serves lately but tonight we, as a team, made our serves and communicated better with each other.”

The outlook for Sparta is hopeful, however. 

“We have more room for growth on this team. We lost this game last year but came back and won Districts,” said Winkle. “We are young but by the end of the season we will play better.”

Sparta’s next game will be against Bradleyville at 9:00 am Saturday in the Forsyth Tournament.  Spokane will host Reeds Spring on Monday, Sept. 10 at 5:00 pm.