MISSION — The McAllen Memorial Mustangs took down the Sharyland High Rattlers 25-14, 25-19, 23-25, 18-24, 15-10 in a key District 31-5A showdown Tuesday night at Sharyland High School.
The Mustangs (22-10, 3-0) raced out to a 2-0 advantage in the match, but saw their lead quickly vanish as the Rattlers (24-8, 1-1) rallied to win sets three and four.
Memorial made the most of the decisive fifth set, however, as a block by Amare Hernandez put the finishing touches on the match in favor of the Mustangs.
“It was our second district game and I’m excited because I can use this to correct for later on. I’m really proud of the girls and all the effort they’ve shown,” Memorial head coach Ashley Doffing said. “It shows all the hard work that has been leading up to district, and I’m excited to be in one of the toughest districts.”
The No. 16-ranked Rattlers, according to the most recent Texas Girls Coaches Association poll, were led by freshman Kenisha Martinez.
The Mustangs will be back in action when they face PSJA Southwest at noon Saturday at PSJA Southwest High School.
Meanwhile, the Rattlers must prepare for another marquee matchup as Sharyland High takes on McAllen Rowe at noon Saturday at Sharyland High School.