The Republic volleyball team battled Kickapoo to five sets Tuesday night before falling short in a hard-fought home match. The Lady Tigers won the first two sets but couldn’t hold off a late Kickapoo rally, losing 21-25, 25-27, 25-22, 25-15, 15-10.
Republic opened strong, taking the first set 25-21 and edging Kickapoo 27-25 in a tight second set. Kickapoo narrowly won the third 25-22 before taking control in the final two sets.
Reese Finley led Republic’s attack with 25 kills and added two service aces. Kate Mitchell anchored the defense up front with two blocks, while Kaylee Cornelsen contributed 14 digs. Reese Frey distributed 53 assists.
The match continued a trend of close contests between the two programs. It marked the third time in six meetings that Republic and Kickapoo have gone to five sets. with Kickapoo winning each time.
The loss drops Republic’s record to 11-14 for the season. The Lady Tigers travel to Carthage for a Central Ozark Conference West matchup Thursday.