McALLEN – The McAllen Rowe Warriors claimed a 25-13, 25-21, 25-15 win over the Brownsville Lopez Lobos on Friday to advance to the second round of the UIL Class 5A state playoffs.
In a season that has presented its share of ups and downs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pregame message was clear and simple from Rowe head coach Magda Canales as the Warriors looked to continue rolling in a season where they finished second in District 32-5A with a 10-4 record.
“All that hard work, dedication, leave it all on the court,” Canales said. “Don’t finish the game thinking, ‘What if I would have done this, I should’ve done this, I should’ve done that.’ Just leave it all on the court.”
The seniors took the message to heart and found the perfect balance between playing loose and free, but aggressive and accurate as Rowe jumped to a quick 20-9 first set lead. It set the tone for the rest of the match.
“The fact that we have six seniors in the group has a lot to do with,” Canales said. “They bring experience and they are very good about making sure that the rest of the team is following, doing what they’re supposed to do.”
The Lobos did their best to earn points, scrapping and hitting the floor constantly to keep rallies alive from the powerful and coordinated Rowe attacks, showing their passion and determination to keep their season alive.
Lopez head coach Daya Venegas said she was proud of what her team was able to accomplish in a season like no other.
“It was a tough loss as the goal is to continue advancing,” Venegas said. “However, I wanted the girls to understand that they’ve showed tremendous effort and grit though this season, especially because of our global circumstances. Being kept out of the gym and weight room during the offseason didn’t hinder their ability to continue to work out, rather it showed their tenacity and perseverance to continue to work toward their season goals. “
Senior outside hitter Anna Honrubia continued her season of dominance for the Warriors having a hand in nearly every rally.
“A lot of practice,” said Honrubia on her commanding performance. “It helps that the whole team is helping me out too. Passing the ball, setting me up and everybody having confidence in me, that also helps a lot.
Rowe will face a tall team and task in the second round against Victoria West.
“We’re very, very excited to play a really good team,” Honrubia said. “It’s good competition. We’re going to practice really hard and see what happens, but I think it’s going to go well, we’re very excited.”