Sandpoint downs Moscow in volleyball

SANDPOINT — Jackie Palaniuk had her serve working to near perfection, smoking seven aces amid several lengthy service runs as Sandpoint downed Moscow 23-25, 25-16, 25-13 and 25-10 Thursday night at Les Rogers Court on the opening day of the 4A District 1 volleyball tournament.

"Jackie had a good night," said coach Karen Alsager of her senior, who also tallied seven kills on the night. "She was serving the ball so hard."

Katie Watson had her typical powerful night as an outside hitter, hammering 13 kills as the Bulldogs quelled Moscow's early momentum and ended up routing the Bears. Abby Helander led the Bulldogs with 16 digs, and threw in a couple of impressive jump serves.

The win should enable the Bulldogs to potentially play only one game on Saturday, as the double elimination tournament continues. Moscow downed Lakeland in a tight five-game match earlier on Thursday, and the two teams will tangle again on Saturday, with the winner facing Sandpoint. Should the Bulldogs take care of business, they will be heading to the state tournament.