By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE — Riverside improved to 4-0 on the season with a pair of dominating performances this past week, downing Ponchatoula and Pope John Paul II in straight sets.

All but one of the Rebels’ six game victories came by double figures.

Riverside coach Kristy Hebert said she likes seeing this kind of focus from her team, especially this early in the season.

“It’s almost a little scary. You certainly want to play your best ball going into the playoffs,” said Hebert. “But as a coach, you have to like the consistency. If we keep that up, and just keep getting better, what more can I really ask for?”

Riverside (4-0) toppled host Ponchatoula 25-8, 25-9, 25-21 Tuesday. Kelsi Roussel had seven aces in the match. Toni Hebert tallied 14 assists, while Kristy Milioto had 12 kills. Shelby Deslatte added 23 digs.

“We scrimmaged Ponchatoula before the season, so we knew they’d give a tough battle,” said Hebert. “I have to give a lot of credit to our first two servers, Toni and Kelsi. We scored the first seven points with Toni up, then eight through 20 with Kelsi. It set the tone and we kept it up through the entire match.”

Hebert also noted Deslatte’s contributions defensively and in the passing game.

“She did a great job with that and allowing us to set up our offense like we needed to,” said Hebert.

Against Pope John Paul last Saturday, Shea LaFountain led the way with 10 kills as RA took a 25-9, 25-14, 25-13 decision.

Milioto had 17 digs. Hebert had 12 assists and she and Kelsi Roussel had three aces each.

Hebert said there are many differences between this team that’s started the season on a hot streak and the one a year ago, which began the season slowly.

“Our defense has been a lot better, as is our passing,” she said. “We may not be this powerhouse team, but each girl is playing within themselves, not trying to do too much. And it’s working out.”

Today, the Rebels continue play at the Grace King tournament which began yesterday.

RA is in a pool with Ehret, Higgins and Academy of our Lady and will try to advance from there.