Polson downs Columbia Falls in nail-biter

Polson 3, Columbia Falls 2

COLUMBIA FALLS — Polson edged Columbia Falls 21-25, 25-21, 25-16, 16-25, 15-12 in a Class A conference volleyball matchup that went down to the wire in the fifth set on Thursday.

Polson jumped out to a 7-1 lead in the deciding set, but Columbia Falls roared back to make it close.

“Our girls did a lot of good things,” Columbia Falls head coach Jolandie Brooks said. “We’re still in the process of getting our flow out there.”

The Pirates managed a huge advantage in the service game, tallying 18 aces to the Wildkats’ nine.

Rylee Kehr had a game-high 19 kills for Columbia Falls, while Kaelyn Smith led Polson with 18 kills.

The Wildkats have a quick turnaround, as Browning visits at 4 p.m. today. The Pirates host Libby at 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Polson def. Columbia Falls 21-25, 25-21, 25-16, 16-25, 15-12

Kills - Columbia Falls 52 (Rylee Kehr 19), Polson 42 (Kaelyn Smith 18). Blocks - Columbia Falls 3 (three with one), Polson 1 (Smith 1). Digs - Columbia Falls 97 (Angellica Street 24), Polson 77 (Kyler Laudeea 27). Assists - Columbia Falls 46 (Hannah Schweikert 45), Polson 36 (Laurel Bittermon 22). Aces - Columbia Falls 9 (Schweikert 4), Polson 18 (Bittermon 4).