Republic’s first volleyball season under Piper Wright ended with a state quarterfinal loss to Ozark, 26-24, 19-25, 25-18.
The first set was close most of the way, with neither team leading by more than three points early. Republic appeared to take control when they took a 21-17 lead late in the set, but Ozark won seven of the next eight points to take the lead 24-22. Republic tied it up at 24 before Ozark grabbed the win.
In Set 2, Republic fell behind 5-1, and looked like they were in danger of being swept. But as they’ve done all year, the Lady Tigers came back from an early deficit. Republic outscored Ozark 22-10 to grab an eight-point lead, and evened the match with a 25-18 win.
Republic grabbed the early momentum in the deciding set, jumping on top 3-1, and eventually led 8-6, before Ozark took control. They scored three straight points to take the lead, and never trailed again. Ozark took advantage of its size to pull away, winning the final game 25-18.
Republic had moved into the quarterfinals by beating host Jefferson City in the sectional round earlier Saturday, 25-18 25-19.
The Lady Tigers end their season with a record of 30-6-3.
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