Turlock High’s volleyball team hosted Buhach Colony High on Tuesday in the first Central California Conference match of the season. The Bulldogs and Thunder split the opening two games but Buhach’s presence in the middle overwhelmed Turlock, leading to a 3-2 victory (21-25, 25-22, 13-25, 17-25).

“They were having trouble against the middle being so big and I think they lost their confidence,” Turlock’s head coach Amber Castillon said.

Buhach’s 6-foot-1 Rachel Andrews constituted the middle that gave Turlock so much trouble. Andrews aggressively played the net, blocking Bulldog shots left and right as well as providing crucial kills for the Thunder.

Still, after dropping the first game Turlock’s offense rallied in the second, overcoming a seven point deficit to regain and maintain the lead. Turlock continued to pressure Buhach for most of the third game as the two teams practically went point for point. Unfortunately for Turlock, Buhach quickly separated itself on the scoreboard to claim the win. The night’s final game was perhaps the worst for the Bulldogs as their lack of confidence parlayed into errors and Buhach points.

“I’m glad we get to play them a couple more times,” Castillon said. “We can adjust and come with a different plan.”

Turlock plays at home again Thursday at 4 p.m. against Atwater High.