Bears’ 7-2 run in the third set propels them past their crosstown rivals
The John Burroughs Bears swept the Burbank Bulldogs in three sets (25-12, 25-13, 25-13) in the first meeting of the season between the two crosstown rivals. Burbank entered the match following a straight-set loss to Marlborough, while Burroughs was coming off a 4-2 showing at the Whittier Tournament. The Bears reached the tournament’s bronze-medal match before falling to Willow Glen in two sets.
The Bulldogs and Bears exchanged points early in the opening set, with neither team immediately establishing an advantage. Burroughs eventually took control behind the offensive production of Amelia Walsh, Victoria Acevedo and Zoe Davis. The Bears limited Burbank to 12 points and secured a 25-12 victory.
Burbank responded by taking an early 3-1 lead in the second set, but Burroughs quickly answered with points from Walsh and Davis. The Bears maintained control throughout the remainder of the set, and Davis delivered the final kill to give Burroughs a 25-13 win and a two-set advantage.
Burroughs carried its momentum into the third set, opening with a decisive 7-2 scoring run. The Bulldogs were unable to overcome the early deficit as the Bears continued their strong offensive performance. Burroughs closed out the set 25-13 to complete the sweep.
With the victory, Burroughs improves to 10-6, while Burbank falls to 6-8-3. Both teams will return to action Thursday for the start of Rio Pacific League divisional play. Burbank will open Crest League competition against Glendale, while Burroughs will host South Pasadena in its Arroyo League opener. Both matches are scheduled for 4 p.m.
