Trailing two games to one in a volleyball match is never an easy proposition. For Chilhowie High School junior Monica Fields, it only serves to fuel her competitive fires.

"I was very nervous," Fields said. "But it got me pumped up at the end."

Fields smashed down a match-high 15 kills and also made two blocks as Chilhowie pulled out a 23-25, 25-21, 23-25, 25-18, 15-9 marathon win over Smyth County rival Marion on Tuesday night.

Chilhowie improved to 4-1 with the win and also showed some mental toughness in rallying for the victory.

"They pulled it together," said Chilhowie coach Laura Robinson. "They’re not real consistent yet, but when they get it going it’s good."

For Fields, it was a big-time performance in what could be a breakout season.

The 5-foot-10 Fields played more of a utility role last season for the Warriors, filling in where needed, as Chilhowie claimed the Hogoheegee District regular-season title and a Region C tournament bid.

That experience has helped Fields become a more versatile contributor this fall.

"She pulls back and gets those good little saves and gets those dinks," Robinson said. "She works really hard."

This year, her duties also include controlling the net and solidifying the front line as Chilhowie’s middle hitter.

"Middle is my position," Fields said. "I love it so much."

Fields racked up four kills and a service point in the decisive fifth game. Her final spike – a powerful hit – was mishandled by Marion’s Bailey Ratliff and sealed the match.

Kelsey Wilkerson (19 service points, 14 assists), Allie Sheets (11 service points, nine assists), Alyssa King (14 digs) and Summer Gregory (11 digs) also keyed Chilhowie’s latest victory.

Chilhowie had blown a 16-10 lead in dropping the third game. However, Fields and her teammates responded.

"It kind of motivates you for the next game to push it," Fields said.

Marion (1-6) received 20 digs from relentless senior defensive specialist Hannah Sturgill, while Elizabeth Rakes (six kills, six blocks) and Taloni Dalton (nine kills, five digs) were also strong in defeat.

"It’s a big rivalry," said Marion coach Amanda Hanshew. "We were coming off a win against Northwood and were really up for this game and wanted to get out there and beat them.

"Unfortunately, we had some communication issues and some that were not on top of their game. It’s hard to put everything together when you have one or two on the floor not playing at their level."

ROANOKE TIMES

Chilhowie def. Marion 23-25, 25-21, 23-25, 25-18, 15-9.

CHILHOWIE -- Kesley Wilkerson's 14 assists, eight aces, and 19 service points led Chilhowie to the win. Monica Fields added 15 kills and Alyssa King had 14 digs.

Hannah Sturgill paced Marion with 20 digs, while Elizabeth Rakes had six kills and six blocks