Cougars rally past Glen Ullin-Hebron to reach Region 4 Semifinals
The Central McLean Cougars volleyball team came ready to fight at the Region 4 Volleyball Tournament in Killdeer, battling their way through a four-set opening round victory over Glen Ullin-Hebron on Monday, November 10.
The Cougars’ resilience and depth were on full display as they overcame an early deficit to secure a 3-1 win, punching their ticket to the regional semifinals.
The tournament, running November 10–13, brought together the top programs from across the region, all hungry for a chance to extend their postseason runs.
Central McLean entered as the No. 3 seed, drawing a tough opening matchup against the second-seeded Glen Ullin-Hebron Bearcats.
In the opening set, Glen Ullin-Hebron came out aggressive, riding an early serving run to pull ahead 25-15.
But the Cougars quickly found their footing in the second, led by steady setting, improved serve receive, and disciplined blocking at the net.
Central McLean tightened its defensive rotations and began converting key opportunities in transition, taking the second set 25-22 to even the match.
From there, momentum swung firmly in the Cougars’ favor. In the third frame, Central McLean’s hitters began to find rhythm, spreading the ball across the floor and forcing Glen Ullin-Hebron to cover every inch of the court.
The Cougars claimed the third set 25-23, showcasing their ability to close out tight points with poise and composure.
The fourth and final set was another back-and-forth battle, but the Cougars’ consistency on serve and energy at the net proved decisive.
A strong final push sealed a 25-22 victory and a 3-1 match win (15-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-22). With the result, Central McLean advanced to the semifinal round to face top-seeded Flasher on Tuesday, November 11.
Elsewhere in the regional bracket, New England, ranked No. 1 on their side of the draw, bounced back from a slow start to defeat Washburn 3-1 (20-25, 25-18, 25-18, 25-18).