By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE — Hahnville upended district rival East St. John Thursday in three games, 25-17, 26-24 and 25-19.

Diranique Daniels had 20 digs to lead the Ladycats (7-12, 0-4). Jessica Sanford had 20 assists.

Despite the loss to the Tigers (10-8), East St. John coach Avignon Williams was pleased with the effort level her team showed.

“They did a really great job today,” said Williams. “They came to win as opposed to playing to not lose. The girls had great energy. If we keep that up, I feel like it’ll show up in the win column soon.”

Williams said that she felt in prior games that her players were too consumed with avoiding mistakes, leading to an approach that was too passive for success.

“The mindset was different today,” she said. “They were really throwing it down when they got the chance.”

Wednesday saw ESJ fall despite an early lead against South Terrebonne (3-12). The Tarpons won 25-19, 24-26, 22-25, 25-11, 25-18.

Daniels had 20 digs and Elizabeth Scioneaux posted seven kills.

“I don’t think we played to the level that we’re capable of,” said Williams. “We did just enough to stay in it. (Unlike Thursday) I felt like we were playing not to lose, banking on them messing up more than we would.”

On Tuesday, Destrehan continued its roll with a victory over ESJ in three games, 25-13, 25-11 and 25-13.

Robin Sill led DHS (23-2, 4-0) with 10 kills. Catherine Beck had 15 assists.

Michelle Haydel had 11 digs and Kayla Smothers added three blocks. Allison Marrs had three aces.

Williams said that a bright spot has been the play of Daniels throughout this season. She has been a steady force defensively.

“She really keeps us in games,” said Williams. “Anything that comes across the net, she gets her hands on it and gives us a chance to play it out.”