The South High Tigers lost to the Washburn Millers in a face paced volleyball match on Thursday. Fighting hard through the first three sets, the Tigers ultimately lost 25-5, 25-11, and 25-17.

Each volleyball match is divided into five untimed sets, the first team to 25 points wins the set. The sets can be long a grueling requiring high explosive stamina, endurance and morale from the entire team. Despite having members in rotation, fatigue sets in and plagues the athletes. However, the fatigue from the first two sets didn’t prevent the Tigers from scoring 17 point on the Millers.

“The whole season has been a preparation for this match” said Lisa Maier, a junior and member of the varsity volleyball team. “We’re going to put up a fight.” The Tigers would be fighting against the best team in the Minneapolis Public Schools conference, the Washburn Millers, who have been undefeated in the MPS conference. “[Our strategy] is to take risks and stay focused on the game. We don’t want to feel nervous or scared.” tells Maier.

Through saves, blocks and most importantly teamwork, the Tigers made the Millers fight for every point they scored. In despite already played two difficult sets, there was no lethargy for the Tigers. Although maintaining a five point lead in the third set, the Tigers ultimately lost by a narrow eight points to the Washburn Millers.