The Republic volleyball team took control of its home opener against Camdenton Monday — but lost it just as quickly, as the Lakers escaped in three sets with a win, 25-21, 17-25, 25-21.
In the first set, Republic jumped ahead 16-9, but Camdenton captured 15 of the next 16 points on its way to a win.
The Lady Tigers sprinted to a big lead early in the second set, also. They led 13-3, and never let Camdenton get within six points the rest of the way.
In the third set, Republic built a 9-3 lead, but Camdenton responded again. The Lakers closed the gap gradually, finally tying the score at 16 apiece. The teams were tied at 19, but Camdenton scored six of the next eight points to clinch the win.
“I think we just had a little bit of a breakdown in communication, and that affected our confidence,” says coach Piper Wright. “It’s the first time all summer and … this season that I saw them be not confident in their skills and each other, and I think that’s what made the difference.”
Rylee Moseman had seven kills to lead Republic. Emma Duvall had 13 assists. Emma Pearce contributed 14 digs on defense and six service aces.
The Lady Tigers fall to 0-2-3, after a weekend tournament at Branson, where they lost one match and tied three others.
JV: 17-25, 21-25 Camdenton
F: 22-25 Camdenton, 25-21 Republic, 21-25 Camdenton