The Albert Lea volleyball team looked strong through the first two sets Thursday against Mankato West in Albert Lea, but wasn’t able to find the same intensity in the final two sets of a four-set loss to the Scarlets.

Mankato West took the first set 25-21, but the Tigers (2-9, 0-4 Big Nine) rallied to grab the second 25-21. The rest was downhill as the Scarlets took control for a pair of 25-13 wins in sets three and four.

“There’s so much improvement, but yet it’s that mental aspect we have to get over,” said Albert Lea head coach Jaime Mauseth. “That’s the only thing that’s holding us back right now.”

Senior Sarah Heijerman and junior Bethany Sekora led the Tigers with seven kills each while eighth-grader Annie Ladwig had six kills. Seniors Kristine Kelly and London Avery each had five kills

Kelly led the team with 26 digs while Courtney Schnaith had 16 and Caylee Tennis nine. Tennis also led the team with 23 assists.

Albert Lea travels to Rochester Saturday to play in the John Marshall tournament.