Republic stormed back from a set down on the road at Springfield Central, winning their non-conference match 23-25 25-7 25-22.
The Lady Tigers had an opportunity to capture the opening set in front of a rowdy crowd at The Pit, but fell short. They quickly silenced the crowd after the changeover, winning the first six points and pulling away to even the match.
Republic jumped ahead in the third set, but let Central climb back into contention. The Bulldogs eventually pulled within two points at 22-24 before the Lady Tigers put the game away.
The win improves Republic’s record to 8-9-3, and coach Piper Wright says her players are building back their confidence after a rough start.
“I think that we believed we were good, but it will wear on anybody’s confidence to get some losses early on,” she says. “I’m glad that we’re at this point in the season, that we can get a run here.”
Republic returns to conference action Tuesday in what promises to be an intense match against one of the best teams in the state.
“We’ve got Ozark tomorrow, which is going to be a massive game,” Wright says. “I really think when we’re playing well we can hang with anybody.”
Michayla Shanks led Republic with 12 kills. Rowan Page-Brennan had 14 digs. Emily Preston directed the offense with 37 assists, and Micah Mansker added two blocks.
Junior Varsity: 25-12, 25-13 Republic
Freshman: 25-4, 25-14 Republic
