“The key to playing Los Gatos is to out-defend them,” head coach Dave Winn said.

On Saturday night, the girls’ varsity volleyball team did just that. In a thrilling four game match against the Los Gatos Wildcats, the Lady Vikes came out with a victory and a ticket to the CCS semifinals against Mitty.

After the first game, it looked as though Paly would be in for a rough night. Los Gatos dominated, and Winn said the girls showed “poor serve receive” and “low energy.”

“We were shaky in the beginning, but we found a spark near the end of the game,” Winn said.

Los Gatos took the first game 25-18, but Paly wasn’t about to let the Wildcats off easy. The Vikings’ newfound energy showed in the second game, which they won 25-14, displaying strength in both offense and defense.

Seniors Ariel Ajagu and Erica Gage led the defense with 3 solo blocks for the match, while Ajagu led the offense with 13 kills.

“I think they were just a little tight and nervous to start the match,” Winn said. “Once they got comfortable, we did a lot of nice things.”

Game three was a close call for the Vikes, who found themselves down 11-18 halfway through the game.

“Gatos played some amazing defense [in game 3],” Winn said. “They made us make a lot of unforced errors.”

The Vikings, however, dug deep and pulled out the 25-23 win.

“That was a pivotal comeback because it took the wind out of the sails from Gatos,” Winn added.

The fourth game was over quickly, with Paly controlling the court and finishing off the match with a 25-13 win.

Next up for the Vikes is a match against Archbishop Mitty, the third ranked volleyball team in the nation.

“Mitty often beats teams before the first serve is even made because they have the aura of a state champion,” Winn said.

Although the odds may be against them, the players feel more excitement than anything over playing them.

“I’m really excited because this is the furthest we’ve ever gone since I’ve been on the team,” junior Hillary Ford said. “I’m excited to put up a good fight.”

Senior Jenice Wilson, who contributed with 10 kills, said that the team just needs to play “with a lot of heart” and to “keep confidence.”

“Maybe I’m crazy,” Wilson said, “but I think we have a chance.”

The Vikings will take on Mitty Wednesday, Nov. 15 at Santa Clara High School at 7 pm.