There may not be a better way for Bethlehem Catholic and Liberty to open up their volleyball seasons than with a city rivalry match right off the bat.

That’s how both teams started their East Penn Conference slate for the fall in Tuesday’s contest, which was past Press deadlines.

However, the anticipation of the match and what it means to both programs both unveiled similar characteristics from both sides.

“Our team is looking forward to our first season match against a strong, competitive team like Liberty,” said Becahi head coach Kelly Brown. “Our girls have been working extremely hard in the preseason weeks and are well prepared for the season to start. This match will have great meaning, because it is going to set the tone for our season. We are excited and looking forward to the weeks ahead.”

For the Hurricanes, head coach Missy Lynn saw her team in action over the weekend at Freedom’s First Kill tournament, along with Bethlehem Catholic.

Getting an opportunity to see her team play, as well checking out Becahi was an opportunity for everyone involved to knock some rust off before the regular matches get underway, as well as scout this year’s teams in the conference.

“It’s a nice way to kickstart the season,” Lynn said. “We got a lot of reps over the weekend and got to work on our lineup. We’re looking forward to the new schedule. They’ve split up our division play so we get to start with Beca this year. They have a strong freshman attack on the right side and some solid defensive players. They’ll make us earn our points so we have to start out fast and hold the lead. We are missing our starting outside hitter (Ashley Houchens), but I think we have enough depth on the team and should do pretty well. It’s nice seeing a city rival right off the bat.”

Freedom opened EPC play on Tuesday as well against Dieruff in a match that they should have had little problem winning.

As far as the weekend winner from the First Kill tournament, that happened to be Emmaus who topped Upper Merion for the weekend crown.