Despite two furious comebacks and a small but shockingly fervent crowd, the Ballard High School volleyball team was unable to defeat Skyline High School, falling to the Spartans three games to two.

The Beavers dropped to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the conference, while Skyline's victory put the team at 2-3 overall but 2-0 in the conference.

Senior Maddie Grant had 15 digs, junior Lisa Day had 22 kills and three aces, and senior Libby Singer had 29 assists for Ballard.

Ballard started the match off well, taking a 6-5 lead against Skyline in the first game and never giving it back, winning 25-20.

However, Skyline broke open a nine point, 14-5 lead in the second game. Ballard continued to play hard and was able to steal the lead at 18-17, but ultimately lost 25-20.

The third game was more of the same as Skyline went up 8-14. Ballard tied the game at 14 apiece, but Skyline was able to pull away for a 25-21 win.

Game four was a welcome break for the Beaver faithful, as Ballard blew Skyline out 25-14.

The Ballard fans would have to enjoy that moment, because the Beavers never challenged Skyline in game five and lost 15-8.

After the loss coach Tami Reese said she was proud of her players for competing the whole match against a talented Skyline team.

Junior Madelyn Voelker, who finished the game with three blocks and 10 digs, was also able to look at the positive.

"We took them to five," she said.

Day, who Reese called one of the best players in the league, said the team has no reason to worry after the loss.

"I think we're going to do really good this season," she said. "I have high hopes."

Michael Harthorne may be reached at 783.1244 or michaelh@robinsonnews.com.