Ceres High’s girls volleyball team topped crosstown-rival Central Valley this past week.

Led by Jada Harris, Kitiana Tuakalau and Jazmyne Arendt, the Bulldogs bested the Hawks 3-1 (25-17 25-22, 13-25, 25-17) in non-conference play Friday evening.

“Our expectation is the same against any other opponent,” said Ceres High leader Kelly Heese, who previously coached at Central Valley. “Every opponent should be a rival.”

The Bulldogs improved to 2-8 on the season.

The Hawks dropped to 3-11 overall.

“Even though we’re losing, things are starting to change on the court,” Heese said. “They’re communicating, passing, hitting and covering better. This is one of the most athletic teams I’ve ever coached.”

Kylie Maines led Central Valley with nine aces and four digs.

Janessa Godinez collected six blocks and three kills.

Amerie De La Torre had four blocks.

Allie Peterman had four digs.

Sejal Malhi and Victoria Lloyd had three and two kills, respectively.

The Bulldogs don’t keep track of individual stats for non-conference matches.

Ceres High and Central Valley split while facing off twice this past season.

The Hawks prevented the shutout during this year’s matchup by winning the third game.

Ceres High competed shorthanded against Central Valley last week as two substitutes missed the match due to illness and another school-related commitment.

“I’m happy with how we played,” Heese said. “Overall, we’re starting to click. There’s still a lot of work to be done. At the varsity level, you shouldn’t have to be coached every play. There’s been a lot of repetition.”