The Albert Lea volleyball team rallied from two games down to tie its match with Southland Monday in Adams and force a fifth game, but the Tigers weren’t able to close it out as the Rebels took the fifth game 15-7 and the match three games to two.

Albert Lea (0-2) missed chances in the first game to establish a lead, but failed to land three consecutive matchpoint serves and Southland took the first game 29-27. The Rebels extended their lead to 2-0 with a 25-20 win in the second game.

The Tigers displayed some resolve and battled back for a 25-23 win and a 26-24 win in the third and fourth games.

Albert Lea head coach Jaime Mauseth said the match was a huge improvement over Thursday night’s 3-0 loss to Century.

“They didn’t come out here looking scared or nervous,” Mauseth said. “I think they’re a little more comfortable now. They really worked well and pulled together as a team.”

The Tigers were without starting senior setter Caylee Tennis, who missed the match because of illness, but junior Brooke Thompson filled in capably, recording 21 assists on the night.

Junior Bethany Sekora led the team with 12 kills while senior Kristine Kelly added seven and senior London Avery had six. Sekora also added four blocks.

Senior Courtney Schnaith led the team with 29 digs. Kelly added 20 and Avery 16.

Albert Lea faces Winona Tuesday in Albert Lea.