With conference and regional titles already secured, the high-flying Columbia volleyball team was hungry for more. But it was just not meant to be.

Columbia battled a tough Mascoutah team in a sectional final showdown Thursday night that was moved from Herrin to Belleville West for closer access to both schools and their fans.

After falling in the first game, 19-25, the Eagles stormed back to win the second game, 25-23. But Mascoutah answered in the deciding game, jumping out to an insurmountable lead before overcoming Columbia, 25-11.

It appeared the Eagles just ran out of gas to a team that eventually advanced to this weekend’s Class 3A state tourney. The loss ended Columbia’s season at 33-5.

“Mascoutah is a very good blocking team and we knew that going into the match. We did a nice job adjusting at times to their block,” Columbia head coach Kelly Landgraf said.  “We struggled throughout the night with our serve receive, which is very uncharacteristic of the team.  Mascoutah served us very tough and that caused the breakdown in our entire game, passing and offense.”

Both schools were backed by large enthusiastic crowds of parents and students…>>>

Read the full story in the November 11 issue of the Republic-Times. If you don’t already receive the paper, you can subscribe by calling 939-3814 or clicking here, or pick up a copy at any of these locations.