ROYAL CITY - Lacking staying power, Royal High School dropped its first volleyball match of the season to Kittitas last week, 25-21, 23-25, 10-25, 15-25.

"Inspired play in the first two games," coach Paul Olsufka said. "We had an opportunity in the second game to tie it up but could not convert the next point."

Olsufka declared Lindsey Small player of the day for the Knights. She served the last four points in the first game victory.

"Some really bright spots that will give confidence to our players to build on and improve the rest of their game," Olsufka said. "Our passing game is improved, which is very encouraging for me and the players. They felt very positive about that part of their game."

Small had a notable outing. She went 15-15 serving with one ace and added 10 digs, two kills and one block. Kayla Smith was 10-11 serving with one ace, and she produced eight digs, four kills and two blocks.

Rebecca Lee went 14-14 serving, had two aces and three digs. Allie Janett served 12-13 with three aces and two kills, and Seila Jenks had 11 assists and two kills.

Royal plays at River View tonight, hosts Wahluke in a rivalry showdown on Thursday night and travels to White Swan on Saturday.