Byron vs.

Kasson-Mantorville

1 p.m., Friday, Oct. 1

Two teams on winning streaks collide in a Class 3A, Section 1 matchup that could serve as a postseason primer.

Byron, led by senior twins Gabrielle and Sophia Gartner, lost at No. 2-3A Stewartville on Aug. 31 but has won its 10 matches since. A victory could be a big boost for a No. 5-3A Byron squad that has been overshadowed in Section 1 for the past several seasons by the Kasson-Mantorville and Stewartville. The Komets beat Byron in the 2016 and 2018 section playoffs.

Gabrielle Gartner, a middle blocker, has 103 kills, 73 digs and 25 blocks for the Bears (11-1, 3-1). Sophia Gartner has 99 kills and 103 digs. With a lineup that also includes sophomore hitter Alexis Nelson (87 kills, 94 digs, 23 blocks, 23 service aces), sophomore libero Lauren Fjerstad (91 digs, 73 kills) and freshman setter Clara Hoegh (363 assists), the Bears will be a tough team to beat.

Kasson-Mantorville, led by 2020 Class 2A All-State honorable mention setter Maddie Converse, lost two of its first four contests before starting a seven-match win streak. Defensive specialist Cate Wanous and senior hitter Addison Bzoskie join Converse to lead the No. 6-3A Komets (9-2, 2-2).