Enumclaw High’s volleyball squad split on the week in its pair of SPSL 3A outings, as it first hosted Decatur, dominating the Gators 25-11, 25-19 and 25-10 and then traveled to Auburn Mountainview’s facility at midweek and lost to the Lions  25-22, 25-18 and 25-17.

With HayleeMae Dennis still on the shelf with an injury the team didn’t have the firepower to get past Auburn Mountainview, said Enumclaw coach Jackie Carel, whose squad slipped to 4-3 in league play.

Dennis’ ankle is recovering satisfactorily.

“We feel like it is a realistic expectation that she is going to be ready to go again by the postseason,” Carel said.

It was crazy eights against the Gators as the Hornets stung them early and often.  Julia Myers went on a spree with eight kills, while middle hitter Danielle Saltarelli sent eight service aces over the net and junior defensive specialist Olivia Bannerot recorded eight digs.

The Hornets struggled when they journeyed to Auburn Mountainview and fell to 7-4 overall on the season, despite Enumclaw’s only active senior, Molly Colyer, notching seven kills.

With crucial league contests remaining against Lakes, Peninsula and Bonney Lake, Carel knows her team will be in for a battle.

“These girls know that they are going to have to show up for these next couple of games in a big way. Lakes is very athletic and Peninsula always gives us fits,” Carel said. “These girls are well aware of the fact that nothing is ever going to be easy for them, but the good news is that they are always up for the challenge.”

Enumclaw made the trip to Lakes Tuesday and host Peninsula Thursday.