WILLMAR — While seventh-seeded New Ulm battled back from a two-set deficit against second-seeded Willmar on Wednesday, the Cardinals held off the Eagles in a back-and-forth fourth set to win 25-23, 25-13, 20-25, 28-26 in Section 2AAA playoff volleyball action.

The loss ended the Eagles’ season with a 14-11 record, while the win moves Willmar (18-6) on to host third-seeded Mankato West in the next round of playoffs on Friday.

The Eagles were led by Laura Bertrang, who had 14 kills and two blocks, while Natalie Yackley had 32 set assists and seven digs. Also for the Eagles, Maddi O’Connor had eight kills and eight digs and Afton Hulke added seven kills and 10 digs.

New Ulm got eight digs from Graceyn Nesje and six from Ella Freiderich as well.