Tigers survive Kuemper

CARROLL — In their only match last week, the Red Oak Tigers defeated the Kuemper Catholic Knights in Carroll in volleyball action last Tuesday, 3-2.

Kuemper Catholic stole the first game from Red Oak, 25-17. The Tigers recovered by winning game two 25-15.

The Knights responded by winning game three 25-21, taking a 2-1 lead. Red Oak wasn't about to go away as they won the fourth game 26-24 and the fifth game 17-15.

Gabi French had a big night for the Tigers, finishing with 15 kills and 17 digs, as well as two blocks and two assists.

Hannah Day had 11 kills out of 28 attack attempts and had successful serves on all 10 of her serves.

Adrienne Mahoney and Grace Blomstedt had big nights at the front of the net as Mahoney had eight kills, while Blomstedt scored seven. Both players each had five total blocks (one solo for each). The tandem was responsible for 2/3 of Red Oak's blocks against Kuemper Catholic.

Mahoney also had a season high in assists, ending the night with 30. Kristi Yardas once again led the team in digs, as she reached to get 19 against the Knights.

For Kuemper Catholic, Brandi Bueltel had 21 kills out of 48 attack attempts with four digs and three solo blocks.

Madi Drees scored 16 kills out of 44 attempts for the Knights.

Red Oak has a big match Tuesday night against the Harlan Cyclones, in a Red Oak Volleyball Tournament semifinal rematch.

The Tigers lost to Harlan on Sept. 17, 2-0. Red Oak will no doubt look for another opportunity to knock off the Cyclones.

Tuesday's match will in fact be the final home match for Red Oak for the regular season. The rest of Red Oak's matches will be on the road and at tournaments.

On Saturday, the Tigers head to Neola to compete in the Tri-Center Tournament.