Redmond coach Richard Abiador talked up this match earlier in the week. It was set to be a big one.

On Wednesday night, Redmond faced Bellevue in a battle of 3A KingCo volleyball squads. Bellevue prevailed, 25-14, 25-15, 23-25, 25-18, and the two teams are now tied for second place with 5-2 records. Mercer Island tops the table at 7-0.

Elise Petit notched a double-double with 19 kills and 19 digs; Ally Ford dished off 30 assists; Katie O’Bryon had 16 digs; and Emma Thomas had 11 digs.

On Monday, Redmond defeated Sammamish, 25-12, 25-8, 25-15.

Tops for the Mustangs were Natalia Chambard with 15 aces and 15 assists, Sasha Heywood with eight kills and Christine Lu with five digs.

Last Friday, Redmond downed Juanita, 25-23, 20-25, 25-22, 25-9.

Ford had 32 assists, 11 digs and two blocks; Lu had 16 digs; O’Bryon had 19 digs; and Shelby Bowman had 14 kills and 14 digs.

Abiador said his Mustangs have been playing well this season.

“We have our struggles like any team, particularly consistency. Some of that is chemistry, which will improve as the season goes on,” said Abiador, noting that Redmond’s loss to first-place Mercer Island was a great test and learning experience. MI was consistent and kept the ball in play.

“We look forward to great competition and only measure ourselves playing the most competitive teams,” he added. “Well-thought-out practices to develop skills as well as keeping the team focused on their goals will help us to keep going strong.”