Lady Mustangs set for Waller

FRIENDSWOOD — When the Friendswood Lady Mustangs walk into a gym, people know who they are.

If they don’t, they’re usually instantly intimidated by the plethora of 6-footers, including three that top 6-feet-2 inches tall.

And even though Waller, Friendswood’s regional semifinal opponent tonight, has no player taller than 5-6, the Lady Mustangs are not overconfident.

“A lot of teams have taken them lightly when they see them walk in, but we can’t afford to do that this deep in the playoffs,” Friendswood coach Kelly Beck said. “They’re a really scrappy team, and they’ve beaten good teams for a reason.”

The Lady Mustangs defeated Clear Falls on Tuesday with a surge of defense. Middle blocker Annie Mitchem was all over the net with her 6-4 frame, getting five blocks. Beck said her team focused heavily on defense this week because offense certainly hasn’t been a problem.

Junior outside hitter Jill Bergeson and Mitchem both had 13 kills Tuesday, and the Lady Mustangs have rolled their last two opponents since an embarrassing and flat playoff win against Terry in the opening round.

“I think they know it’s time to get up for these games,” Beck said. “They know they have to play up now because it’s playoffs.”

Friendswood hasn’t lost a set in more than two months, but Beck is confident her team will respond if pushed to the brink.

Friendswood’s regional semifinal match with Waller will begin at 6 p.m. at the Berry Center in northwest Houston. Foster and Montgomery play at 1 p.m. Saturday in the other semifinal.