By CURTIS ROCKWELL/Sports Director

BAY ST. LOUIS — Perennial state volleyball power Our Lady Academy got off to a bit of a sluggish start this season, splitting its first 10 matches.

However, don’t look now, but the Crescents seem to have suddenly gotten back on track over the past week or so.

OLA has now won seven straight matches, and nine out of its last 10, after sweeping through its own invitational tournament over the weekend.

The recent run also included a key road win in Poplarville Thursday, a thrilling five set affair 25-19, 19-25, 27-25, 22-25 and 15-13 in a clash of two of the top teams so far this season in the “Southern Six”.

Crescent senior standout Kaylin Kinniburgh recorded 26 kills, 24 assists and 16 digs in the win, while Krissi Pavolini registered 31 assists, 11 digs and 14 kills. Lola Haas had 18 digs and 26 service receptions, while Madeline Piazza had 15 digs, 24 receptions and 14 kills.

The Crescents have played so far this season without multi-sport standout Taylor Henley, who is out with an injury.

For Poplarville, Abby Cowart produced a work sheet of 19 kills and 21 digs. Libby Wells posted a match high 40 assists, while Lexie Gomillion added 20 kills, 15 digs and 31 service receptions.

OLA travels to arch-rival St. Patrick Tuesday night in Region 8-3A play, while Poplarville hosts South Pike in Region 8-4A action as well Tuesday. The Crescents are now 11-5, and the Lady Hornets are 7-4 overall.