Daycie Graham is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Marcos De Niza High School for AZPreps365.com

Marcos De Niza lost in straight sets (7-25, 11-25, 15-25) at home to Mesquite on Wednesday. That was the Padres' second consecutive loss in the 4A Desert Sky region, and a bounce-back win after the Wildcats (9-2) were swept by Saguaro in their first regional match on September 30.

The 4A conference's No. 21-ranked Marcos had a slow start recovering from the No. 9 Mesquite's 7-0 run in the first set. However, the Padres (7-2) bounced back, with seniors LaQuira Alexander and Mckenna Baker delivering powerful kills, reigniting the team's energy.

Padres coach Fernando Vital acknowledges Alexander and the shift he made in between sets that impacted the match.

"It gave us the most effective blocks. She has more mobility in front, and she's more active," Vital said. 

Marcos struggled against Mesquite's fast-paced offense, but their key players in sophomore middle blocker Nalani Joe and freshman libero Sofia Vita helpd the Padres' resilience.

"I would stay at my base and then work my way in. That's what the coaches tell me to do watch where the hitter's arms are going," Vital said.

The Padres' defense struggled against Mesquite's powerful hitters, but adjustments were made in the front row that were heavily impactful.

"Our blocks were placed in the right spots and we made sure our back row wasn't going too deep to find where the hitters were placing the ball," Joe said. "I make sure there's a voice on the court. As a middle blocker, I need to communicate and support the other hitters."

The final set of the match ended in a thriller. Marcos took their first lead of the set at 7-6 after they made several key plays to stay in the game. The Padres' junior right side Neveah Lizzarraga's hustle and digs significantly impacted their defense. 

"I liked the hustle the little bit of mistakes cost us but, all around the hustle was great," Vital said.  "The team knows what work they need to put in. The chemistry and work ethic are a lot better this year, and they know what they're facing this second time around."

The Padres will prepare for their next regional game at the No. 3 Cactus Shadows on Monday at 6 p.m.