Republic overcame a slow start to sweep past McDonald County in two sets, earning a spot in the district semifinals with a 25-18 25-19 victory Monday in Webb City.
Republic, the #3 seed, fell behind early to the Mustangs. Trailing 11-7, coach Piper Wright called a time out. From there, the Lady Tigers took control. Republic earned a side-out on the next point, then Bella Drennan reeled off six straight service point to give Republic a 14-11 lead. The Lady Tigers stretched their lead to seven points at 23-17 before closing out the first set.
The second set unfolded in a similar way. McDonald County took an early lead at 9-7, but Republic scored 10 of the next 12 points to grab a 17-11 lead. The Mustangs stayed close, cutting the lead to two points at 20-18, before Republic won five of six to clinch the victory.
The Lady Tigers are now 19-12-1. They advance to the semifinals against #2 seed Carthage, who pounded winless Neosho in their opening-round match. They’ll play Tuesday at 6 pm in the second semifinal — right after #1 Carl Junction plays #5 Joplin. Joplin upset #4 Webb City in three sets Monday to advance.
The two semifinal winners will play for the district championship on Tuesday night, after the completion of the second semifinal.
