Round 1 in the State Tournament at the Xcel Energy Center in downtown St Paul, MN, home of the Wild! After the banquet at Crowne Plaza Wednesday night introducing all the girls playing in the tournament from all 24 teams, we are ready to get the championship settled. Our friends from Andover had already lost a tough match to Stillwater 3-1. Time to introduce our Saints.

Game 1 started out with point Saints but, quickly Nevis built a 4 point edge. We tied them twice in the match though we never led after 1-0. Nevis takes round one 25-22 and set the tone for the match. Lets pick it up Saints!

Game 2 looks very much like game 1 with Nevis holding the edge. Our girls look like they need to pull it together and start playing like they can. In the end Nevis pulls out another win, more decisevly 25-15. Can the Saints pull it together? We can only hope so but now we have to win the final 3 games of the match.

Game 3 our Saints had a fire lit under them by the coach. They looked like they have in the sections and end up totally dominating the game and winning 25-9. Now the fans are feeling a whole lot better and know this can be done.

Game 4 was another close match with several ties along the way. Several points lasted 10 or more times across the net. Great volleys and hard work by both teams said they both wanted to advance. Saints end up winning 25-22 so bring on game 5.

Gane 5, winner moves on, looser goes to the consolation bracket. Who wants this more? Nevis takes an ealry 6-2 lead and the Saints appear to be in trouble. They quickly get back in the match and tie it at 9. Then the point go back and forth. Game tied at 13, the Saints win the point but quickly give the point back. 14-14 game 5, does it get any better than this? I guess our Saints wanted this more as they scored the next points and advance to play top ranked Bethlehem Academy tomorrow at 1 pm.

Don't miss it! Way to go Saints, we are very proud of your accomplishments this year.