MUKILTEO

In a battle between programs that both advanced to the state championships last season — Kamiak in Class 4A and Shorecrest in 3A — Kamiak prevailed 3-1 in the Wesco South division opener for both teams Sept. 27.

Kamiak won 26-24, 25-23, 24-26 and 25-18.after losing a non-division match vs. the Scots 3-2 earlier this season.

Shorecrest came into the game ranked second in the state in a Class 3A coaches’ poll.

One point from losing the game and the match, Shorecrest scored three consecutive points to force a fourth game in the best-of-five battle. Kamiak hung tough though, building a 6-1 lead in the deciding game en route to victory.

“Kamiak played a good match all the way up and down: good blockers, good hitters (and) good ball control,” said Shorecrest coach Dave Morehouse, whose team had won three straight 3-0 sweeps since it beat Kamiak Sept. 5.

Shorecrest was hurt significantly by not having standout Kerry Clavadetscher, a versatile junior who is out with a torn finger ligament.

Mike Cane writes for The Herald in Everett.