West Liberty-Salem put together a strong effort Tuesday night but came up short in a competitive three-set match against Madison Plains, falling 25-8, 17-25, 25-21.

After a difficult opening set, the Tigers responded with a much-improved performance in the second. West Liberty-Salem found its rhythm offensively and defensively to even the match with a 25-17 victory, setting up a decisive third set. Madison Plains was able to hold off the Tigers' late charge and secure the match with a 25-21 win in the finale.

Reese Winters led the Tigers with a team-high nine kills while also contributing 13 digs, three aces and two blocks. Kiersten Stoll added five kills, eight digs and a block, and Lilli Heminger chipped in three kills, six digs and three blocks at the net.

Sophia Landon paced the offense with 15 assists while adding eight digs and a block. Reagan Winters provided three assists and recorded 11 digs as the Tigers' defense worked to keep rallies alive throughout the match.

Defensively, the Tigers were led by Reese Winters' 13 digs, followed by Reagan Winters with 11 and Stoll and Landon with eight apiece. Kenna Wright finished with three digs, while Alissa Dixon added three digs. Rylee Falloon contributed a block and a dig.

At the net, West Liberty-Salem totaled seven blocks, led by Heminger's three. Reese Winters added two blocks, while Stoll, Landon and Falloon each recorded one.

The Tigers will look to bounce back Thursday when they travel to Triad to take on the Cardinals. First serve is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.