Goessel High School volleyball did better this season than its 19-19 record indicated, but that wasn’t enough to save the team from being eliminated in its first match Saturday at substate.

The Bluebirds seemed less aggressive with their serves than at regionals, and it led to them losing the first match to Udall 25-21.

Goessel gained momentum in the second set and struck back to win it 25-20. The Bluebirds’ momentum continued in the third set, but Udall was able to stay close. Udall took third set 25-23 to win the match and send Goessel home early.

Elizabeth Alderfer was the only senior on this year’s squad.