There’s never really a good time to face the No. 1-ranked team in the state, but for the United South Central volleyball team it came on the heels of one its worst performances of the season.

The Rebels (6-5) put Tuesday’s woes behind them and turned in a respectable effort against Bethlehem Academy Thursday in Faribault, falling 3-1.

The Cardinals got a 25-18, 23-25, 25-15, 25-15 win over USC.

Carly Peterson had 17 digs while Megan Jacobson added 12 and Tayla Sunde nine.

Kayla Stenzel recorded 14 kills and Val Sahr 12.