Kinady Crews takes a swing during Lafayette's match with Branford. 

BRANFORD — Branford and Lafayette met on Monday in a final tune up before next week’s district playoffs.

The Hornets took a 3-1 victory (25-10, 25-14, 24-26, 25-19) behind strong performances from Sarah Hamlin, Harmony Richardson, Kinady Crews and Charlie James.

Hamlin led the way with 21 kills, 18 digs and six aces. Richardson and James combined for 32 assists while Crews added nine kills. 

The biggest takeaway from the match though is that both teams enter postseason play with a lot of confidence. 

“I’m anxious, I’m ready,” LHS coach Marcy Richardson said. “We have had some really good games this season where we’ve played how we’re capable of playing. We are still growing.”

Richardson said defense and blocking will be the key for Lafayette (13-7) in the playoffs. 

The Hornets, district champions for the past seven years, might not have a stellar record like previous seasons. But they certainly have a shot to make another deep postseason run with a standout senior leading the way.  

“Sarah (Hamlin) has been a dominate hitter,” Richardson said. 

Kinleigh Collins led Branford with seven kills and four aces on Monday. 

The Buccaneers, who finished the regular season with a 9-6 record and 7-3 mark in district play, look to be a frontrunner in the District 7-1A Tournament, along with Trenton.  

Branford hasn’t advanced to the state tournament since 2014, but coach Mendy Sikes is confident in this team.   

“We have had some ups and downs. It’s real challenging with injuries and losing your middle blocker and setter who score 75 percent of your points,” Sikes said. “But Kinleigh Collins, Victoria Haburn and Blair Smith have stepped up. We should have everybody back for districts. I’m confident.”