SO. SECTION DIVISION I-A: SAUGUS TAKES CARE OF BUSINESS SAUGUS 3, C.V. 0.

Byline: Gerry Gittelson Staff Writer

SANTA CLARITA - The Saugus High girls' volleyball team knows that if this year's group doesn't make an impact in the Southern Section Division I-A playoffs, it might never happen.

Nine players are back after making it to the quarterfinals a year ago, and there's a sense of urgency that hasn't been felt since the Centurions advanced to the 3A finals in 1993, their best finish in school history.

So Saugus didn't fool around against Crescenta Valley of La Crescenta in the first round of the playoffs Tuesday, sweeping the visiting Falcons 15-4, 15-2, 15-12 to advance to Thursday's second round against California of Whittier at a site to be determined.

``We weren't taking anything for granted tonight,'' middle blocker Lisa Sonnenblick said. ``This is a good start for us. I think it's a big first win for us because this year's team wants to win more than last year's. We're much more intense.''

After taking the first game, Saugus reeled off 12 consecutive points to start the second. The third game was close primarily because Saugus emptied its bench to let the reserves play.

``I wanted to get everyone in because some of the girls might not get another chance,'' Saugus coach Bobbie Estes said.

Outsized at every position, Crescenta Valley (11-12) never had a chance.

``Their height gave them a huge advantage,'' Crescenta Valley coach Jennifer Kunz said. ``If you can't hit the ball over the top of them, there's not much else you can do except dig.''

Sonnenblick led Saugus with 13 kills. Julia Bradley added 10 kills, and Gillis had seven kills and 11 assists.

Now all Saugus needs to do is maintain the momentum.

``Well, I think it's a real good start. We're pumped up and feeling strong,'' setter Rachel Gillis said. ``I think our experience this year will make a big difference and really help us. We're more comfortable out there. We had three really tough teams in the Foothill League this year, and that will really help us a lot now that the playoffs are here.''

Crescenta Valley can take pride in not giving up. The final game lasted longer than the first two combined.

``I think the way we came back showed our true character,'' Kunz said. ``This is not a team that just rolls over. We're going to keep fighting until the end.''