Mighty Tough: Mother McAuley Moves Back to Top of Weekly Patch Volleyball Rankings

1. Mother McAuley (12-2): De La Salle loomed as the final tune-up for Bridget Powell and the Mighty Macs before another big weekend of play. Title at Rich East included a thrilling victory over Marist. Last week: No. 4. Next: Thursday vs. Berkeley Prep; Friday and Saturday ASICS Challenge at Mother McAuley.

2. Marist (17-2): Rachel Dolton had 10 kills in the RedHawks’ sweep of St. Viator. The question is whether Marist will meet Mother McAuley for the third time this weekend. The two already have split a pair of barnburners. Last week: No. 2. Next: Thursday at Nazareth Academy; Friday and Saturday at ASICS Challenge at Mother McAuley.

3. Providence (18-5): Krista Brakauskas can float the ball in the air to a teammate or sting from the service line like the first letter in her last name—B. She delivered 19 assists and 13 points in a 25-12, 25-18 victory over Marian Catholic. Alyssa Powell earned all-tournament honors at Rich East. Last week: No. 5. Next: Thursday vs. Benet Academy.

4. Sandburg (15-3): Battle-tested Eagles prevail in tense matchup vs. Andrew (23-25, 25-16, 28-26). Highlight at Rich East for Sandburg was victory over Wheaton St. Francis. Last week: No. 1. Next: Thursday vs. Lockport.

5. Lincoln-Way East (14-2): At 6-3, Katie Allen provides the Griffins with a big presence in the middle of their rotation. She also provides a big game. Allen had seven points, four kills and three blocks in a 25-23, 25-16 victory over Lincoln-Way North. Last week: No. 3. Next: Thursday vs. Joliet Central.

Next best (in alphabetical order): Andrew, Chicago Christian, Lincoln-Way West, Marian Catholic, Oak Forest.

(Covering the following Patch communities: Chicago Heights, Evergreen Park, Frankfort, Homewood-Flossmoor, Mokena, New Lenox, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Palos, Tinley Park and the neighboring private schools that draw students from those communities).