Nathan Beitler/MDN Minot High Sophomore Everette Deschamp jumps to spike the ball in their home game against the Bismarck Demons.

The Minot High Majettes dominated in their first set against the Bismarck High School Demons, but lost three straight sets, costing them the match and their undefeated conference status on Tuesday night, September 17.

The Majettes had a strong opening against the Demons, taking the first set 25-13. Juniors Kynsli Gillmore and Hadlea Faul had strong starts in the first set. The two starters and the other Majettes were able to keep up their momentum through the first set, taking advantage of the Demons’ unfamiliarity with the court. As the Demons adjusted, the Majettes slowly saw themselves fall further and further behind.

The second set ended close with a score of 25-23, just putting Bismarck over the top to tie the sets. The Majettes found themselves setting the ball often to Gillmore on the outside and senior Eve Knutson sliding and the Demons were quickly able to catch on and take advantage, going on a run that won them the set.

The Demons were able to carry their momentum into the third set, winning it by an even wider margin than set two, ending it with a score of 25-19. At the end of the third set, the Demons had fully adjusted to the court and to the Majettes’ defense, allowing them to win the fourth and final set of the night with a score of 25-16. Bismarck’s three set run cost the Majettes their undefeated record in the Western Dakota Association. The only undefeated team in the WDA after the matches on Tuesday, September 16 are the Century Patriots.

The Majettes will head back on the road Thursday night, September 18 to take on the St. Mary Saints with their new 4-1 conference record.