4A Girls Volleyball: Oswego opens postseason with win over West Chicago

A dramatic Set 1 win paved the way for Oswego to clinch a two-game sweep over West Chicago and advance in the Class 4A St. Charles North Regional.

The Panthers (16-19), seeded No. 17, held a 22-21 lead over No. 18 West Chicago in the opening game, but the Wildcats pushed ahead to lead 24-23. Oswego trailed 26-27, but scored the final two points and eventually won the match 28-27, 25-21.

"West Chicago is a strong defensive team, led by Laura Katarzynski, with a lot of options at the net," Oswego coach Matt Slechta said. "Tonight was a good battle between the two teams and the game was more or less dictated by first contact skills. Both teams missed a lot of serves, but the defensive play on both sides was outstanding. It was a good lead in to the defense that we have to play against Geneva."

Against West Chicago, Holly Behrends finished with 18 kills, 10 digs and two blocks while Lexi Miller made five kills and Cara Ferchen had 25 assists and seven digs. Desiree Walters had 12 digs.

With the win, Oswego moved into Tuesday's regional semifinal game against No. 1 Geneva where the Panthers' season ended with a 25-9, 25-6 loss to the Vikings.