Republic used a strong defensive effort to capture a second straight district volleyball title, beating Reeds Spring in the final Wednesday, 25-23, 25-14.
Republic fell behind early in the first game, but eventually grabbed the lead and held off a Reeds Spring rally to win by two points. In the second game, the Lady Tigers’ defense asserted itself, as they pulled away to capture the district crown.
Mallory Long had 15 digs to lead the Lady Tiger defense in the final. Nicole Hallam added three blocks. Elle Aston had eight kills for Republic, and Jordan Jones had 23 assists.
In the semifinal, Republic had defeated Mount Vernon, 25-15, 25-19. Elle Aston led the team with nine kills in that match. Alex Botkin had 13 digs, and Aston and Shelby Gordon each had three blocks.
Republic advances to the sectional playoff round at Marshfield, where they’ll play Carl Junction Saturday at 3 p.m. The winner of that match will play at 6 p.m. in the state quarterfinals, against the winner of the other sectional match between Rogersville and Fulton.
