It was close, but no cigar for the Wayland varsity volleyball team Tuesday night.
The Lady Wildcats opened the match for the O-K Gold Conference championship at Grand Rapids Catholic Central with a 25-20 win, but the host Cougars, ranked No. 6 in the state-wide Class B poll, roared back to capture the next three sets, 25-17, 25-19 and 25-22.
Coach Krissy Dill’s outfit, which had earned honorable mention accolades at the end of the regular season, lost only to Catholic Central in league play this season. The Lady Wildcats finished with a 6-1 record in dual matches and clawed their way to the championship final round before losing.
Wayland will be host for the Division II district tournament next weekend.