The Tigers came into the SunDome in Yakima on a high note following last Saturday’s thrilling win in the district championship over rival Ellensburg.  Today, the Anacortes Seahawks showed up with their talons out and took it to the Tigers winning 3-0 (18-25, 21-25, 23-25).

The nerves seemed to get the best of the Tigers early in set 1 as Anacortes jumped out early and never relinquished the lead.  At one point, the Seahawks held an 11 point advantage.  Ephrata was able to battle back but was unable to close the gap.

Set two saw much of the same as Anacortes attacked early.  However, this time the Tigers showed some resiliency providing timely serves and capitalizing on an improving net game.  Anacortes was able to hold on just as the Tigers were beginning to push them back on their heels.  Ephrata looked to be finding their own pace as the third set began taking an early lead.  Showing signs that they had finally shaken the nervousness and were getting used to the loud and distracting features of the SunDome, The Tigers appeared to be gaining confidence.  The set was very tight with both teams hungry for victory.  Yet it was not to be for Ephrata.  Unforced errors and double hits would be the theme for this first-round matchup.

Next up for the Tigers is a 4:15 pm matchup with the Mark Morris Monarchs, three-set

losers to #1 ranked Columbia River.  Tune in to nfhsnetwork.com for live-action.