The Demopolis High (1-2) volleyball team picked up its first win of the season Thursday when it downed Thomasville (1-1) in four sets.

“It was really important because it gives us the momentum to go into our area games and win,” Demopolis head coach Blythe Smith said. “They had to work really hard for the win. Because they worked hard and won, they are more confident in their ability.” Her team will face area opponents Greenville and Selma next week.

The Lady Tigers climbed out of a five-point hole behind the strength of a Keona Branch run of serves to take a 22-21 lead.

“The leaders are emerging,” Smith said. “Definitely Keona Branch is one of those that already stands out. But there are some other girls that are stepping up.”

Demopolis trailed by as many as eight in the game before the home Tigers rallied to pick up a 25-23 win.

The Lady Tigers never trailed in game two en route to putting Thomasville away 25-22 in the second match. Demopolis blew a 15-12 lead in game three before falling to Thomasville 25-19.

“We had first serve in the fourth game, so I told them we had to get some serves on the board to begin the game and stay up the whole time,” Smith said. “Our goal was to lead the whole game.”

The game also allowed Smith to utilize a number of players in different positions, helping to develop some depth for the Lady Tigers.

“I definitely have a lot of options when it comes to players and the positions that they play. Jocelyn Thurman played as a middle hitter. She has only practiced as an outside hitter, but she did really well at middle hitter,” Smith said. “The ability to adjust is really important for the depth of the team.”

The Lady Tigers host Greenville Tuesday before traveling to face Selma Thursday. Both matches are scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m.