By Mike Rubin

Led by several solid efforts, the Somerville High School volleyball team captured its first win of the season. In its home opener against Greater Boston League rivals Malden, the Highlanders battled to an exhausting 3-2 win. Coupled with Friday night’s 3-2 defeat to Medford, the Highlanders stand at 1-4 overall.

Middle hitter Jacqui Homsi delivered some solid blocking and hitting. Homsi earned a solid service game, serving up 27 up points through the five match victory. Also recording solid performances for the Highlanders were Nicole Genard and Lorenza Etienne, who also emerged with strong attacks, along with some great kills and digs.

“The girls really did an awesome job,” said coach Lauren Poussard. “They’ve really stepped it up over the past couple of weeks, and I was very pleased with the effort. We’re looking to improve with each and every game.”

Defensively, the Highlanders were led by co-captain Nazha Ferradi, Zhanea Nicholson and co-captain Stephanie Gullage, who recorded solid digs while setters Brittany Cassidy and Tatiana Riviera also recorded several key assists.

“Our setters played some great defense, and they moved to the ball very well,” said Poussard. “We’re starting to come together as a team, and as a coach, that’s something you always love to see happening.”

Despite a solid effort, the Highlanders suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Medford. After both teams battled to a 2-2 tie, the Highlanders’ bid of a victory fell just short with a 15-13 defeat in the fifth and deciding match.

“The game was a tough one, and our serving wasn’t consistent,” said Poussard. “We need to improve our serve receive, and it’s getting there, but we still have a lot of things to work on.

The girls are definitely working together more and improving in play. We play Lawrence at home on Monday and I’m looking forward to continued improvement and consistent serving.”

The Highlanders faced off against Lawrence on Monday night.